Returning to the Office: It Must Be Worth It
We’re at a vital moment in time. Vaccines are rolling out. Restaurants are reopening. People are taking vacations. And… we’re returning to the office to work in person. The re-entry into post-pandemic life is filled with moments we will remember forever.
- Our first trip after the pandemic.
- Our first meal in a new pantry.
- Our first time gathering with new employees.
Our First Day Back to the Office.
The Ides of October marked The Post’s Return to Work Day. There was a lot of free food and swag—as well as that sweet rapid testing—to nudge us all in at once, despite the fact that we’re officially in the office three days a week and staggering.
October 2022 appears to be too late to resume in-person business. My colleagues and I may have spent more time at home than many others. It was fun to see old and new faces, with some people meeting their team members for the first time in person.
Many people likened this to the first day of middle school, but at some point, it felt more like an opportunity to be a tourist in their own lives. As we had to consult a map because we had forgotten previously memorized routes. Familiar things require conscious thought, such as which intersections delay their walk signals for cars getting a green arrow for left turns or which way to go when the elevator arrives at our floor.
It goes without saying that working from home for the past two and a half years has changed everyone’s lives. We had a long commute and didn’t realize how much we valued that time until it was unexpectedly returned to me.
But if there’s one thing we’ve missed, it’s seeing our colleagues in person! The Mohali office reopened on October 10th, 2022, and it was STUNNING.
We participate in a variety of activities, such as:
- Interaction with new colleagues
- Game activities
- Lunch
- A new office structure in accordance with the new branding
- All over greenery and motivational quotes
- A motivational speech by our esteemed Managing Director, Mr. Naveen Kumar Verma
- HR’s welcome speech
Some of us enjoyed these activities, but those who didn’t participate feel like coming to the office is not worth it. So, here are some tactics to make them feel comfortable.
Fun Ways to Welcome Your Team to the Office
Returning to work can be both stressful and reassuring. Depending on individual attitudes and the office environment, an introverted person may feel challenged by the need to mingle and mix after a long time away, whereas a socially engaging person will be delighted to return to the company of colleagues.
Going above and beyond to welcome your team back to the office can be a morale booster and bonding experience that results in improved overall performance and a healthier work culture.
Here are some suggestions for making the return both enjoyable and simple for your employees.
Increase Work Methods Flexibility
It cannot be denied that times have changed, and your team may still prefer the flexibility that their previous style of work demanded post-WFH.
Allow for creative time management and extended breaks as long as they do not interfere with the business.
Not only will this foster trust within the group, but it will also assist you in incorporating all of the beneficial aspects of your remote work days into your daily routine.
Organize Friendly Competitions
Playing fun games can be a great icebreaker for both old and new team members. At the end of the day, hold potluck competitions, scavenger hunts, or even a lemon and spoon race.
The goal is to make people laugh and make them feel at ease with the change. Don’t forget to give the winners a small token of appreciation and allow team bonding to occur.
Bring in some delectable treats.
Nothing beats being greeted at work with a fresh cup of coffee, a sandwich, or even some donuts. Edible treats are a great way to add a little fun to your business without breaking the bank.
Takeaway
Overall, I’m grateful to work for a company with a trusting culture that allows for hybrid working, and I can’t wait to dive into the new balance it provides. In some cases, insights are created, shared, and understood much more effectively in person, and we’re fortunate to have a space that allows for this. However, it’s important to remember that everyone adjusts to change differently. You’ll have members of your team who would prefer to stay at home, so check in with your team members on a regular basis, be flexible, and be patient. Also, have fun!
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