⚙️ AI startups are snatching up San Francisco real estate as Gen Z craves office life Noah Jackson, a software engineer, prioritized office culture in his job search at the start of 2024 after spending most of his career in remote work. He joined Tako, a visualization startup requiring employees to work in the office four days a week, reflecting a trend among early-stage tech companies in San Francisco that seek to revive pre-COVID office dynamics. This shift comes amid a growing fatigue with remote work, particularly in San Francisco, where many tech workers prefer in-person interactions. Tako's CEO, Alex Rosenberg, noted the competitive real estate market as companies vie for office space, despite the city's overall high vacancy rate of 34.9%. The AI sector has been a significant driver of office leasing activity, accounting for 72% of San Francisco’s office leases in 2023. Companies like Tako and Embra, another startup, emphasize the importance of in-person collaboration, believing it enhances team energy and innovation. However, the challenge remains for startups to attract talent willing to commute to an expensive city while maintaining a balance of remote work options. Experts like Y-Vonne Hutchinson warn that enforcing strict in-office policies can erode employee trust, particularly for those with long commutes or caregiving responsibilities. Despite these challenges, some companies, like Medra, have successfully recruited talent by promoting their in-person culture, which appeals to engineers seeking collaboration and mentorship. Overall, as the AI sector continues to grow, startups are adapting to changing workplace expectations while navigating the complexities of in-person work in a post-pandemic landscape. 💬 Source 📌 Powered by V3V Ventures