Why workplace flexibility is crucial to agency DEI efforts

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated many changes to the ways workplaces function, and advertising agencies are no exception. As a new normals for work emerge post-pandemic, it is becoming increasingly clear that workplace flexibility and the return to the office are impacting equity and inclusion efforts.  The unique dynamics of the agency business are making the shift to flexible work slower and more complicated. Agencies are typically compensated based on time, which emphasizes a culture of relationship-building and “face time” making in-person work during set hours the norm. Long, late hours in the office are an established part of agency life, and many agencies  have provided various in-office perks such as games and beer carts that have helped reinforce that culture.