Returning to the office after a year spent working at home is something some people are looking forward to, and others are dreading. For some people, skipping the morning commute has been one of the highlights, and they have found they have been so much more productive while working from home. But, for others, working from home has felt lonely, and they miss the water cooler chats and social element of being in the office. As a business owner, there are undoubtedly many mixed feelings for you to consider when planning a return to regular working practices. 

 

Managing your team’s varying feelings about returning to the office is crucial to ensure a smooth transition for every employee. Understandably, some employees may be feeling anxious about being back in the work environment, so doing all you can to alleviate those concerns and making employees feel at ease is vital. One of the biggest concerns your team may have is about working together on projects in person after spending so long working independently. Finding ways to help your team reconnect after so much time apart is the best way to alleviate any concerns about working together and help everyone reacquaint themselves with each other and their way of working. Here are some ideas to help employees reconnect after a long absence from the office:

 

Have Fun Online

 

It is a wise idea to start your transition process for the return to work early to allow everyone time to adjust. Organizing a team-building session could be a valuable way to help make the adjustment easier. Meeting in person may not be possible, so online events such as escape rooms or quizzes could be an excellent alternative for virtual fun with your team.

 

Organize a Reunion Celebration

 

Planning a celebration to mark your return to the office is an excellent way to get the team together. In addition, organizing a celebration for your team to thank them for their hard work during lockdown will show them that you appreciate them and the effort they put into your business while working remotely. 

 

Showing your team their hard work is appreciated is crucial to maintain employee engagement. Making the event as relaxed as possible is essential to ensure it stays fun. To make sure everyone has a great time, it is good to organize some entertainment to lighten the mood. You could look for Rental Arcade Machines for your team to play on and maybe karaoke or a photo booth to keep everyone entertained. Organizing a celebration is an excellent way to mark the end of working from home and the beginning of a return to some kind of routine. 

 

Encourage Breaks

 

Taking extra care of your team’s wellbeing is vital when they return to work. Even simple acts such as encouraging people to take breaks will make a difference. Taking regular breaks is an excellent way to reduce stress and boost productivity; it also allows your team to spend downtime together in the break room and reconnect.