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Google extends remote working arrangement to next summer

Google extends remote working arrangement to next summer

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Google told employees in an internal memo last week that they can now work from home until at least July 2021 in response to the ongoing pandemic. 

About 200,000 employees including contractors and full-time workers will be affected. 

"To give employees the ability to plan ahead, we'll be extending our global voluntary work from home option through June 30, 2021 for roles that don't need to be in the office," Google CEO Sundar Pichai wrote. 

"I hope this will offer the flexibility you need to balance work with taking care of yourselves and your loved ones over the next 12 months."

Earlier In May, Pichai said he expected the pandemic to prevail until the end of the year, and therefore the majority of employees who can work from home can continue to do so. Offices will be open for employees who need to return to the office in July. 

Google's wellness and resilience lead Lauren Whitt revealed that the tech giant offered all employees US$1000 allowance to spend on equipment for their home workstations. 

"The routine and the habits that we used to have in the office are so important for us to translate those and set new routines and new habits into the workspace and work setup that we have at home," Whitt said. 

Also read: Google gives WFH employees US$1000 furniture allowance

In addition, Google, which has been known for its innovative and interactive office design and its perks such as fitness classes and cafes, launched virtual fitness classes, cooking classes, and meditation and mindfulness classes. 

Apart from Google, several other tech giants have also prolonged their work-from-home policy. In May, Twitter announced that some employees can work from home permanently, while Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said half of the company's employees can work remotely on a permanent basis for the next five to 10 years. 

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