How to Transition Back to the Office from a Remote Work Environment

Now that May is here, many states are beginning to loosen stay-at-home restrictions, and employees are heading back into the office for work. While there were many tips out there on how to transition to a work-from-home environment, what happens now? Just as the transition to remote work was challenging, the reverse will also be tough.

Here are some ideas to help you prepare for working on-site after weeks of working remotely.

Adapt to your environment

When working from home, it’s essential to develop a strict routine and adhere to it. This helps combat the distractions of working from one’s personal living space. Establishing a space solely for completing work-related tasks helped you distance yourself from personal distractions. The same can be applied when you return to work.

Sometimes working from the same room or space for an extended period can make it hard to focus. Consider using a patio, empty office, or even a different chair to alter your surroundings enough to increase productivity. If noise is an issue, noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver. Remember, not everyone worked from home with a packed house full of kids or other family members. Millions worked from home alone and there will be an adjustment period for being around people again. (So, no bathrobes in the office, buddy!)

While you were working from home, it probably became clear that you needed to treat your daily routine just like you always had: get up for your morning breakfast or coffee, dress like people will see you, and gather your supplies. Try to maintain this schedule as much as possible when working in the office so you don’t shock your routine. Just be aware that you’ll likely have to add time into your morning routine to account for travel into the office.

Bring your home to work

Create an inviting, familiar workspace by taking some items from home to work. In your weeks of isolation, maybe you found you enjoyed your own personal red stapler or wireless mouse more than the one you use at work. Despite any cabin fever-generated frustrations, it can be nice to be home with your family. Taking in some pictures or other personal items to the office will help you adjust to spending time apart from them.

Just because you are back at work does not mean everything is entirely back to normal. If you are feeling under the weather or just want to be precautious, packing your coronavirus mask in your briefcase might be a good idea. If nothing else, it will give everyone, including you, some peace of mind during the immediate reintegration (just be sure you’re wearing it correctly).

Along those same lines, packing your own lunch might be a safe bet, too. Sure, we are all sick of preparing our own meals, and the idea of going out to eat with your colleagues is borderline nostalgic now. But, it’s better to finish up the groceries you have at home before diving into the wallet to buy something new. Plus, this small step to maintain familiarity will help you transition more smoothly out of the house.

Digital account linkups

Switching things up just a bit, if you are an entrepreneur, business owner, or have a lot of responsibilities, you’re sure to have gathered a stockpile of important documents during your time at home. Instead of carrying around a stack of paper or an external hard drive, try moving all of your business records over to a cloud-based server. Your entire team will thank you for staying organized and providing access across everyone’s devices during the chaotic move back.

The ability to access company files from any location is already a reality for many employees. What is important is keeping the door open for remote and on-site workers to complete assignments in tandem. Hopefully, a global quarantine will not happen again, but if it does, being prepared makes good business sense. Digital communication software, like Zoom, will continue to be essential moving forward, whether you’re in the office or not.

Another way to maintain safety and stay connected is by managing finances digitally. A digital business bank can provide entrepreneurs and business managers with all the solutions they need to keep their business revenue tracked in one place. Everyone can stay safe by limiting human interaction, and a digital cashflow virtually eliminates the potential threats exchanging dirty, paper money can carry.

Take it slow

Many furloughed professionals who have not been working may find themselves a little rusty in terms of the general workflow. It can be daunting and stressful to return to the workplace after a long hiatus. Executives, managers, and team leaders must use communication, organization, and professional training focused on your employees’ needs to help ease your staff back to their prior routines.

Group meetings and employee incentives will also help boost morale and allow everyone to feel valued moving forward. Be cognizant of retaining a healthy work-life balance, too. Having a break to get some fresh air or eating lunch outside can also help lift your mood and clear your mind for a more focused workday.

Once you’re back in the office, these disciplines can make a difference in transitioning smoothly and staying productive. It’ll be great to see all your coworkers again and work in an environment other than your home. Maintaining some semblance of normality can make all the difference when you start your transition back to the workplace.

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