Emma Grede, co-founder of Skims, recently addressed the lesser-known consequences of remote work during her appearance on the “Leaders with Francine Lacqua” podcast. Grede shared her belief that working from home could significantly impact one’s career and social well-being.
Remote Work and Career Implications
Grede stated that the discussion around remote work often overlooks its negative aspects. She characterized working from home as potentially damaging to professional growth. “Working from home is career suicide,” she informed listeners, highlighting the necessity of in-person interactions.
She emphasized that the decline in social connections might be linked to increased remote work. Trends such as declining birth and marriage rates, as well as growing feelings of loneliness, are connected to fewer face-to-face interactions, particularly during Zoom calls from home.
The Importance of In-Person Networking
For Grede, establishing relationships can set the foundation for a successful career. Reflecting on her early career experiences, she recalled the value of unpaid internships that allowed her to engage with organizations directly. “It was a huge unlock for me,” she noted, emphasizing the need for young professionals to learn from experienced colleagues.
Work-Life Balance Debate
This isn’t Grede’s first controversial statement regarding workplace dynamics. In May 2025, she labeled inquiries about work-life balance during interviews as a “red flag.” Grede argued that achieving work-life balance should be the individual’s responsibility, rather than that of their employer.
Her views resonate with other leaders in the business community. For instance, Elon Musk publicly criticized remote work, deeming it “morally wrong,” as it creates disparities between employees. Similarly, Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan remarked that remote work can hinder the development of younger employees who benefit from in-person guidance.
Return-to-Office Trends
Since mid-2025, major companies like JPMorgan, Amazon, and Google have encouraged employees to return to the office. This trend signifies a notable shift as organizations recognize the value of in-person collaboration.
- Emma Grede highlights risks of remote work for careers.
- Social issues like declining marriage rates linked to remote work.
- Importance of in-person networking emphasized in early careers.
- Controversy over work-life balance discussions during interviews.
- Prominent CEOs advocating for return-to-office policies.
Grede’s insights shed light on the evolving conversation about remote work, urging a reconsideration of its broader societal implications. Her perspectives challenge individuals and organizations to think critically about the future of work.
