They didn’t force anyone, yet attendance spiked 57%: How AI firm ditched strict rules to bring employees back to office

A US-based artificial intelligence firm has recorded a sharp rise in office attendance after rolling out wellness stipends and commuter-friendly benefits, according to a report by Business Insider. Superhuman saw daily attendance jump by 57%, signalling a shift in how companies are approaching return-to-office policies.

Superhuman introduced quarterly wellness stipends of up to $2,000 (around £1,600) for employees working five days a week from the office, while those attending two days receive $500 per quarter. These benefits can be used for childcare, gym memberships, grocery delivery, and cleaning services, helping reduce everyday friction linked to office work.

As reported by Business Insider, the company’s leadership focused on solving practical employee concerns such as commuting costs, parking, and workspace comfort instead of enforcing strict attendance rules.


The firm also introduced free daily meals and social hours to improve workplace culture and encourage collaboration.

Earlier Office Mandate Failed to Engage Employees

Superhuman previously enforced a two-day office policy, which failed to gain momentum. Despite nearly 70% of employees living within commuting distance of its hubs in North America and Europe, attendance remained low and employee sentiment turned negative.

Leadership admitted that employees did not see sufficient value in coming to the office under the earlier model.

Behavioural Science Helps Rethink Workplace Strategy

To improve the situation, the company consulted behavioural scientist Jon Levy to better understand employee motivations. The strategy shifted towards encouraging voluntary attendance by enhancing the office experience rather than mandating it.

The new approach has led to stronger engagement, quicker problem-solving, and improved collaboration among teams. Company executives described the investment as highly effective, noting that the benefits far outweigh the costs.


Inputs from agencies