Get Hired

Returning to the Office Is Hard Enough — Now Picture Doing It Without a Desk

As companies continue to navigate the evolving workplace landscape, many employees are being asked to return to the office. But for some, that return comes with an unexpected twist: no assigned desk.

In a shift away from traditional office setups, more employers are embracing "desk hoteling" or hot-desking models, where workers pick a new spot each day or share workspaces on a rotating basis. While these arrangements can offer flexibility and save companies money on real estate, they’re also sparking frustration among employees who say the lack of a permanent workspace makes it harder to focus, collaborate, and even feel connected to their teams.

The idea isn't entirely new. Hot desking gained traction during the pandemic as companies downsized office spaces and embraced hybrid work. But now, as return-to-office mandates grow stricter, the absence of a consistent workstation is becoming a bigger issue for workers used to the comfort and familiarity of a personal workspace.

Some employees report spending valuable time each morning searching for a place to sit, only to find noisy areas, broken equipment, or fully booked zones. Others struggle to concentrate in constantly shifting environments, making productivity a challenge.

“It’s like going into work blindfolded,” said one marketing professional. “You never know where you’ll end up or what kind of setup you’ll get.”

For companies pushing employees back into the office to foster collaboration and company culture, this chaotic approach may be counterproductive. Experts suggest that without thoughtful implementation — including reliable booking systems, quiet zones, and enough space for everyone — hot desking can do more harm than good.

Still, not all experiences are negative. Some remote-first companies have found success with flexible seating when paired with intentional office design and strong communication tools. The key, they say, is balancing flexibility with functionality.

As the future of work continues to evolve, one thing is clear: returning to the office is complicated enough. For many, doing it without a desk might just be the final straw.