With COVID-19 restrictions easing and many workplaces reopening, professionals have to find ways to transition from a remote work arrangement to an in-office one. As with shifting to telecommuting, heading back to work has many employees feeling anxious and uncertain.
Professionals may worry about accommodating their commute again, engaging with colleagues face-to-face, or finding office-appropriate attire. For many, fears about emerging COVID-19 variants weigh heavily on their minds, making them concerned for their health.
While transitioning back will come with challenges, there are ways to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips that can help.
Talk to Your Employer
First and foremost, talking to your employer about their plans for having employees return to the office is essential. Request copies of new company policies that outline any changes in workplace behavior or expectations. Ask questions if you have specific concerns or need any points clarified. Find out about policy enforcement, precisely what will happen if an employee is not abiding by the health and safety rules.
You can determine how the company plans to bring everyone back to work successfully by having a conversation. Additionally, it may create opportunities to advocate for yourself or ensure that the company effectively communicates its new policies.
See If a Gradual Transition Is an Option
If the remaining remote isn’t an option, see if your employer will allow a gradual transition back to the workplace. For example, instead of heading into the office five days a week right away, see if you can start with one, two, or three days each week.
Often, a hybrid schedule makes it easier for professionals to adapt to the new arrangements. Plus, it can make social distancing and other safety policies easier to manage as there will initially be fewer people in the office at once.
While your employer may disagree, a decent number might. As a result, it is worth asking if a full-time return is initially on the table.
Speak with Trusted Colleagues
There’s a strong chance that many of your colleagues have had similar concerns as you have, making them a potentially valuable resource. Speak with trusted coworkers about your worries and see if they can offer any guidance or advice.
Additionally, make plans to have a small social interaction together once you return to work, especially if you haven’t seen each other face-to-face recently. This can give you something to look forward to, making the shift back to work less intimidating.
Create a New Routine
While your pre-pandemic routine may be floating in the back of your mind, there’s a decent chance that it isn’t entirely clear to you any longer. As a result, you may want to start recrafting your morning routine well before your first day back to the workplace.
Set an alarm for when you’d like to get up for the day you’ll head back to the office. Next, do everything from choosing your attire, packing your bag, preparing breakfast, and getting ready for your commute. That way, you can determine if your wake-up time will work well before you have to head out the door. Then, you can make adjustments as necessary, ensuring you’ll be ready when that day arrives.
Ultimately, each of the tips above can make going back to work easier. If you’d like to find out more, the staff at The Advance Group wants to hear from you. Contact us today.
