Why mandatory office days are discouraging top freelance tech talents

Over the past few years, remote work has become a cornerstone of the modern workforce. However, a new shift is emerging: many companies are now enforcing mandatory office days, often exceeding one or two days per week. While some structure is beneficial, an overly rigid approach is driving away a crucial segment of the workforce — freelancers.

The rise of remote work was accelerated by the global pandemic, pushing companies to rethink how and where their employees work. Finland, a country known for its progressive work culture, initially embraced this trend. Recently, however, an increasing number of companies have begun encouraging employees to return to the office.

At Thriv, we’ve observed this trend firsthand. Some of the best freelancers in our network have declined roles solely because of mandatory office requirements. Here’s why this issue is becoming a stumbling block for companies looking to hire the best talent and how it impacts their long-term competitiveness.

Freelancers are not traditional employees; they thrive (hah!) on flexibility. Most choose freelancing to escape the constraints of a typical 9-to-5 on site office routine. By enforcing mandatory office days, companies strip away a key advantage that draws freelancers to their roles. While many freelancers are willing to attend occasional in-person meetings or collaborate onsite for a day or two each week, requiring more than this is often counterproductive.

Why companies should care

Freelancers are often some of the most skilled and experienced professionals in their fields. They choose freelancing not out of necessity but because it aligns with their desired way of working. When companies insist on frequent mandatory office days, they inadvertently close the door on this valuable pool of talent.

At Thriv, we’ve had numerous cases where talented freelancers declined opportunities because of such policies. A recurring theme we hear is that the perceived loss of autonomy outweighs the benefits of the role. Companies may think these policies foster collaboration and accountability, but they overlook how it impacts their ability to attract high-caliber professionals.

Additionally, the best freelancers have options. They can afford to be selective because the demand for their expertise often outweighs the supply. This means that companies clinging to traditional office models risk losing top-tier candidates to competitors offering greater flexibility.

Striking the right balance: 1-2 office days

Some degree of in-person interaction is valuable. It fosters team cohesion, encourages brainstorming, and allows for deeper collaboration. However, the key lies in moderation. Freelancers we’ve spoken to are generally open to one or two office days per week. This strikes a balance between face-to-face collaboration and the flexibility they value.

By capping office days at one or two per week, companies can accommodate freelancers’ preferences while still benefiting from occasional in-person engagement. This approach not only helps attract and retain top talent but also positions companies as forward-thinking and adaptable in a competitive labor market.

Beyond discouraging freelancers, insisting on mandatory office days can have a ripple effect on workplace culture. Employees and freelancers alike may begin to perceive these policies as a lack of trust in their ability to work independently. This can lead to decreased morale, reduced productivity, and higher turnover rates.

Furthermore, in a globalised economy, the competition for skilled labor is no longer local. Companies must contend with international firms that embrace remote work and offer greater flexibility. Inflexible office policies could leave Finnish companies at a disadvantage, especially in industries like tech, where remote work is now the norm.

Adapting to the future of work

As the workplace continues to evolve, companies in Finland must ask themselves: Are mandatory office days worth the trade-off? For many, the answer lies in flexibility. By tailoring policies to align with freelancers’ expectations, businesses can gain access to a larger pool of skilled professionals while fostering a positive, trust-based work environment.

The solution isn’t eliminating office days altogether but adopting a balanced approach that prioritises results over rigid schedules. Flexibility doesn’t just benefit freelancers; it’s a win for everyone, from full-time employees to company leadership. Businesses that recognise this shift will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive landscape.

In conclusion, while mandatory office days might seem like a way to improve collaboration and productivity, they come at a significant cost. For companies hoping to tap into the expertise of top freelancers, the message is clear: prioritise flexibility, or risk losing out on the best talent.

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