Mumbai, February 21: Does going to the office for just a few minutes really count as "returning" to work? Many hybrid employees seem to think so as they embrace the growing trend of "coffee badging." The term refers to workers showing up at the office for a short time, just enough to swipe their badge, grab a coffee, and chat with colleagues before heading home to complete their tasks. This trend has emerged as a response to companies issuing return-to-office mandates. As a result, coffee badging has become a quiet rebellion against rigid workplace policies.

Some view it as a way to blend flexibility with office presence, while others see it as a sign of disengagement. With remote work preferences clashing with corporate attendance rules, coffee badging has ignited debates about work culture and productivity. So, let's explore this workplace phenomenon - what is coffee badging, and why is it gaining popularity? What Is Fauxductivity? Everything You Need To Know About the New Trend of Employees Appearing Busy Without Being Productive at Workplace.

What Is Coffee Badging?

Coffee badging refers to employees making brief office appearances, just long enough to be seen, swipe their badge, and perhaps grab a coffee before returning home to work. The term, first explored by Owl Labs, describes a growing phenomenon among hybrid workers who want to comply with return-to-office mandates without staying all day. Since many policies only require workers to be present without specifying duration, coffee badging has emerged as a way to strike a balance between corporate rules and personal flexibility. What Is Chameleoning? All About the New Gen Z Dating Term You Might Be Unknowingly Living.

The rise of coffee badging reflects a broader shift in workplace culture. Employees argue that remote work boosts efficiency and reduces unnecessary office distractions, making mandatory in-office time seem outdated. By coffee badging, workers maintain their autonomy while technically following the rules. However, some employers see it as a loophole that undermines team collaboration and engagement. As companies adjust to post-pandemic work structures, coffee badging highlights the tension between employer expectations and employee preferences.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 21, 2025 05:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).