Whether you’ve loved working from home, or your chomping at the bit to get back into the office, there’s no doubt office life will be different. Many people feel confused, worried, and even apprehensive about going back to the workplace, so to help you transition from Zoom meetings to meetings IRL we’ve got some handy hints and tips to get you office ready.
Dress for success
Whilst wearing athleisurewear may have become the staple WFH uniform, to help you get back into boss mode, you’ll want to dress for success. This could mean wearing a statement pair of earrings, a killer pair of heels, or your favourite power suit. Whatever it is that makes you feel great, go with it!
Start setting your alarm
In a cruel twist of fate, returning to the office is coinciding with later sunrises and earlier sunsets. If you’ve been enjoying the short commute from bed to desk, then it might be time to start setting your alarm. Start getting up at the time you previously needed at least two weeks before you start back in the office. This will give your body enough time to adjust.
Get your mask and hand sanitizer
Most of us are still unsure what returning to the office will look like, but it’s worth getting your mask and hand sanitiser ready. Reusable masks are the best when it comes to office work, as they can be washed at the end of the day. Ensure you have at least three in rotation, and always remember to have one in your bag. Have hand sanitizer and wipes on your desk, with spares in your bag. And remember to sanitize your hands each time you touch a surface.
Take any work equipment back
If you’ve been using work equipment at home remember to take it back. There’s nothing worse than feeling unprepared when you arrive in the office. Whether it’s your chair, laptop, or just your mouse, having everything ready the night before your due back. This will ensure you minimise that back-to-work rush and stress.
Talk with your manager
Whether you regularly have catch-ups via Zoom or email, scheduling time for a face-to-face with your manager will be beneficial for both of you. Don’t be afraid to air your concerns, whether it’s about your health, your job, or the office environment. If you’re one of the 6.3 million furloughed, you might be feeing particularly anxious over your return to work. No-one has experienced this before, so, everyone really is taking it one day at a time.
Check-in with you
Going back to the office won’t be the same as before, so it’s important to constantly check-in with how you feel. If you’re feeling overwhelmed see if you can work in a more flexible way. And remember, we’re all navigating this new norm, and it will take time to adjust, but there are people out there who can help.
Author:
Chris Lewis
