Returning to the office – what you need to know

For some of us the Pandemic may have brought big changes. You may have lost your job. You may have worked from home (all this time) because of a comorbidity. It may all start to change for you again as you go back to the office…

“Every single job is a challenge. You are walking into a new set, a new character, creating a world and trying to get comfortable to do your best work.” – Felicia Day

If you are a returnee…

Dynamics may have changed since you last worked at your office. People may have changed. The company may have restructured or still going through a cost-saving process.

Listen an observe before jumping and assuming all is still the same. Pick up on those old relationships and make new connections. Be open to whatever changes may have been implemented and show your manager that you are still eager to be there.

If you are new to the company…

You have so much to learn about your new co-workers and company culture. Give yourself a few days to observe and learn. Ask questions, be proactive.

“A new job is like a blank book and you are the author.” – Unknown

If you want to confirm to your new employee that you were the right hire, make sure that you put up your hand to take on challenges; arrive earlier in the morning and leave a little later as you simply cannot be a go-getter and clock-watcher at the same time; ask when you don’t know, it is the only way you’ll learn.

Your new co-workers don’t expect you to know how everything works right away. They do however expect you to be able to do the job you were hired for. They will want you to be involved in projects and share your opinions.

In conclusion

Working in an office environment means you are part of a community with many moving parts that you need to take into account. As much as your co-workers can help you, they expect the same in return.