5 tips for transitioning from a work from home set-up to on-site work
After working from home for a while, it can be difficult to return to an on-site job. However, it does not have to be difficult, particularly if you plan ahead of time. Furthermore, by implementing some strategies to ease your return to work, you can make the transition easier and more enjoyable for yourself.
As the COVID-19 restrictions loosen and most companies require employees to adjust to the old working set-up, here are some tips as you prepare to return to the office:
- Create your work routine.
Your first step is to try to match your work schedule as closely as possible to your virtual schedule. For example, if you are used to creating to-do lists, checking work emails, and organizing your workload in the mornings, continue to do so when you arrive at work each day. If you want to get ahead with more time-consuming tasks earlier in the day, stick to your new office routine.
Returning to the office can also mean a change in pace in interactions with coworkers, so it’s critical to stick to your routine and make time for office chats.
- Build a comfortable space.
Make an inviting environment for yourself. Bring a photo from home or another item that reminds you of the comforts of your home office, whether you have your own office or your desk is in a shared space.
Keep your desk clean and tidy. Don’t forget to bring your pen and file organizer for documents and folders. Bringing items from your home office can help you adjust to your new surroundings and feel at ease in your workplace. Also, if your company allows it, bring a pair of noise-canceling headphones for those times when you need to concentrate without being distracted by office activity.
- Develop your patience and stability.
Expect the protocols in place at your company to change over time. New information and changing conditions will require your company to adapt. Manage your expectations with patience and flexibility so that you won’t become frustrated or worried whenever something changes. Try not to see change as a negative thing. It’s more often a good thing when organizations are open to change and success, even if they have to do it on the fly.
- Maintain open lines of communication.
Working on-site usually requires clear and constant communication, feedback, and interaction. Maintain clear communication methods and check in with your teammates on a regular basis to let everyone know what you’re working on and what you need to finish.
- Establish clear objectives and limitations
Set clear objectives for your workday when you return to on-site work so you can outline each task you plan to complete for the day. Set boundaries for yourself, just as you would for remote work.
For example, prioritizing projects and keeping work and socialization separate. Interaction with colleagues is expected when working on-site, so you should also set boundaries by communicating when you have time to chat and when you need to focus on your work. As you get back into the swing of things at the office, it will become easier to balance your productive and social moments.
