What is it like when returning to the office or a factory or a retail shop post-pandemic? Well, Covid is not over yet. But, the government and offices have made certain relaxations and are now re-opening to normalize commercial operations. So, what is like to go back to the office? Over the last few years, people have learned to work from home. Hence, when the pandemic struck, the management of different organizations was too quick to recognize that employees can continue doing their work remotely, moving forward post-pandemic situation. This new normal has brought the latest technologies and ways of working adopted by many organizations worldwide.
In the changed scenario, businesses are now making significant changes to ensure safety and health concerns for employees. All this is fine for organizations to adapt to new working environments and manage new operational methods while meeting the needs of the employees and the business. For employees, it is a new set of challenges as they move forward.
What do employees need to do to manage this change?
While everyone experienced this crisis, they all did not experience it the same way. Many employees may be reluctant to go back to the office without having conditions. However, considering the severity of the diseases, the employees would like to be assured that they are well-protected from the Covid-19 infection. For others, many will be eager to go back to the workplace but may have caregiving constraints back home.
Adapting to new ways of working means employees will need time to adjust. Coming back to the external physical environment after an extended gap, employees will find the office layouts have changed and their working schedules altered.
Even though it may bring relief to millions of workers to return to the office, the workplace may never be the same again. There are certain things employees must embrace and prepare themselves mentally and physically as they gear up to return to the workplace.
Make a dry run
According to experts, employees should take a few steps to reduce the anxiety of returning to the workplace. Employees should do a dry run before returning to work on the official re-joining date. The idea is to go to the office, look around, sit at the workstation and get the feel again. It is advisable not to jump in right away but rather test the waters of the changing office environment. People should not expect to see and feel the same what it was a year back. However, passing time will make things easier for the employees as offices are now gearing up to meet new working methods. Safety concern of the employees is of paramount importance for every Organization.
Give the wardrobe a makeover
Making the transition from comfortable T-shirts and leggings to a sharper outfit helps. Getting into an official work attire makes one more professional and confident. One should consider buying new workwear to feel refreshed. If one looks good, one feels good.
Re-establish a regular sleep schedule 
Working from home meant changed sleeping patterns. Taking power naps during work, managing family life, and pushing official work commitments late into the night meant altered sleep schedules. Now, going back to the workplace at a specific time and commuting means employees need to have a routine sleep time. Adequate sleep will improve productivity and buffer one against emotional and physical wear and tear.
Practice physical distancing
It is now ok to maintain social distancing without offending anybody. A gentle reminder to others who encroach on one’s space helps.
Conclusion
There will be different ways to return to the office as employees. Whatever ways an organization choose, Organization will try to ease their way back to a starting point. Communication will be the key to make the transition less daunting—all the best to all returning employees. Stay safe and Stay Healthy.