Why forced office returns backfire (and what smart leaders do instead)
Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)
Subscribe for more episodes on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Mandatory office returns are back but are they actually helping us work better? In today's episode, we get real about task masking, quiet quitting, and the push-pull tension around remote work that every fundraiser and nonprofit leader is feeling right now.
For many, being back at your desk doesn't mean you're actually getting more done; it might just mean you're playing the part. We dive into why forcing a return to office can create resentment, reduce productivity, and fuel resistance tactics like task masking. More importantly, we explore how nonprofits can shift to human-first workplace policies that actually make sense.
Joining Maria today is Caitlin McBride, an experienced nonprofit leader who has been on both sides of this conversation. She's been remote, she's been hybrid, and she’s seen firsthand how rigid office policies can miss the mark. Together, we unpack the nuance around what makes for a healthy, productive work environment in our sector.
Remote Working in Nonprofits – The Highlights
1️⃣ Task Masking is Real, and it’s Resistance, Not Laziness
Task masking happens when employees "act busy" just to appear productive in office environments. It’s a way to push back against rigid mandates and surveillance-driven leadership.
2️⃣ Remote Work Is Proven. Stop Pretending It Doesn’t Work
During the pandemic, we saw remote work boost wellbeing, widen talent pools, and help working parents and marginalized folks thrive. Ignoring this is ignoring evidence.
3️⃣ Not All Roles Need the Same Work Setup
While fundraisers may not need to be desk-bound, early-career employees or socially isolated team members may benefit from face-to-face connection. Flexibility is key.
4️⃣ Micromanagement + Sunk Cost = Forcing Office Returns
Some leaders push for office time due to control issues or because they’re stuck in long-term leases. Neither is a good enough reason to disrupt staff lives.
5️⃣ True Productivity Should Be Measured by Outcomes, Not Presence
Warming a seat is not the same as delivering impact. Nonprofits need to measure real outcomes, not how often people walk past a manager's door.
🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor retention, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work! We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!
3 Actionable Tips for Small Nonprofits Thinking About Remote Work :
Embrace Flexible Work Arrangements Not everyone needs the same thing. Allow people to opt into schedules that align with their personal and professional realities. Flexibility is retention.
Make In-Office Time Purposeful Don’t ask staff to commute just to sit quietly. Plan office days with intent — for team building, collaboration, or mentorship — so the time has meaning.
Trust Your People Stop measuring work by physical presence. Instead, focus on deliverables and outcomes. Treat your staff like adults and they’ll rise to meet expectations when trusted.
