Digiday published a lead-in for the WorkLife report on Adland responses to the WPP RTO policy titled: Industry clutches pearls after WPP returns to office four days a week.
Industry clutches pearls?
While the phrase has gained cross-cultural and gender-neutral status, Wiktionary states its origin as follows: From the stereotype of a woman who wears pearls and is easily offended.
Given Adland’s gender inequality issues—as well as intersectionality exposed via the privileges enjoyed by White women in the field—surely Digiday editors could have hatched a better headline.
Cast not pearls before swine…?
Industry clutches pearls after WPP returns to office four days a week
By Tony Case
WPP’s announcement requiring employees to return to the office four days a week has sent shockwaves through the advertising industry, spotlighting a deepening divide between corporate-owned and independent agencies on workplace flexibility. While some leaders argue in-person collaboration fuels creativity, critics view the move as outdated and morale-crushing.
Employees have voiced frustration over the abrupt policy from the agency holding group, citing poor communication and personal challenges, with some questioning whether “creative collaboration” outweighs childcare needs or two-hour commutes. Meanwhile, independents see an opportunity to attract disillusioned talent championing flexible models that balance productivity with personal well-being.
As WPP braces for potential backlash — including a petition with over 15,000 signatures — the industry grapples with a critical question: can rigid mandates coexist with the evolving expectations of the modern workforce? For now, the battle lines are drawn, with the future of talent and agency hanging in the balance.
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