Navigating Equipment Returns: A Cautionary Tale from the Corporate World

Ten months ago, I made the significant decision to leave my position at a Big Four firm. While I have moved on, remnants of that chapter still linger—a couple of laptops belonging to the company, one of which is no longer functional.

Upon my departure, I diligently filled out a survey indicating the company-owned equipment I needed to return. I also specified that I required a shipping label and boxes for the return. Considering my remote work setup, the last thing I wanted was to travel a 40-minute commute to hand back the devices in person, especially when factoring in parking costs.

After patiently waiting for the promised shipping materials, I found myself empty-handed. A call to the office resulted in my request being rerouted to another office since the original one was unresponsive. The representative assured me he would have someone follow up with a call, but of course, that never happened.

Now, several months have passed, and those laptops have become an impediment in my home office space as I transition into my new job. It feels rather frustrating that returning these items has been such a convoluted process.

I’m aware that a simple phone call could resolve the matter, but it raises the question—why does returning company property have to be so cumbersome? It’s a small reminder of the hurdles that can linger long after moving on from a corporate environment.

As I tackle this situation, I can’t help but ponder the complexities of managing equipment returns in today’s hybrid work landscape. If you’re in a similar position, remember that advocating for a smoother process isn’t just about the items—it’s about reclaiming your workspace and moving forward on your own terms.