The work environment has changed drastically over the last few years, with many individuals working remotely from the comfort of their homes. However, with more vaccines available and companies reopening their doors, employees may experience anxiety about physically returning to the office.
Organizations can take numerous steps to help acclimate their staff to the office routine and minimize anxious feelings. By preparing employees and providing the support necessary during this transition, management can make the entire process less stressful for everyone.
Ease into it with in-office days
Rather than jump right back into full days at the office, employers can ease their staff back into a routine slowly. In addition, a hybrid model that includes combining work from a remote virtual office with in-person office hours can reduce anxiety for anyone nervous about returning to the office full-time.
Individualized planning can ensure that an organization has enough in-person staff working while others alternate from home. Consequently, using this changing model can allow all employees to ease into the work culture at the office a few days a week.
Organizations can use this adjustment period for as long as they need to keep staff productive and happy. For example, some companies may use two or three full-day schedules that alternate during the week. Other organizations may opt for split work days, providing half-day plans that switch between remote and in-person office work.
Recognize the source of anxiety
To successfully support employees with anxiety about returning to in-office work, organizations must recognize the source. For example, is a staff member anxious about current health regulations or masking mandates? Maybe an employee is stressed about having increased transportation costs that come with daily commuting.
Talking openly with staff about any possible hesitations or concerns when returning to in-person work days can provide insight into the cause of these feelings. When an employer takes the time to understand why staff members are anxious or stressed, they can better prepare and manage appropriate ways to support these individuals.
Offer tools and support to employees
Employees want to work where they feel supported and valuable. Therefore, organizations offering various tools and support methods during the transition from remote workstations to in-office workdays will have happier and more productive staff.
The management team should be aware of signs and symptoms of stress, including panic or anxiety attacks, disassociation, or other stress-related conditions. Educating staff members on these illnesses can bring more awareness to seek help before the symptoms escalate.
Providing mental health strategies, like stress-reduction meditation or frequent mind breaks with deep breathing or mindfulness, can reduce feelings of anxiety and nervousness. A fidget ring is also an excellent stress reduction tool that can help calm nerves and distract the mind in stressful situations. In addition, allowing employees to have a comfortable space at the office can be beneficial and promote mental health awareness.
Use open communication for optimal transparency
Many companies will have an open-door policy for staff to approach the management team with concerns. Reiterate how vital it is that seeking support and guidance during the transition back to the office will help ease anxiety and reduce stress.
Employees should feel comfortable coming to their supervisor or manager with their worries when returning to the office setting. Allowing open communication ensures that staff feels valued, and the management team can better guide these individuals on how to ease the back-to-office transition.
Educate the Staff
Educating the staff is critical if an organization has to implement specific masking mandates or vaccine requirements. Employee anxiety can come from not knowing what is expected of them once they return to the in-office setting.
Keeping the staff aware of any protocols the company has to follow and what is required from them once they return to the office will help minimize anxiety. Be sure to cover specific details about regular testing, cleaning and sanitation procedures, and time away from illness. The more information employees have, the less stressful the return to work process can be.
Try to remain flexible and understanding
Each unique individual may require more or less time to progress back to in-person office hours. Remember that there is no one way to transition staff members returning to the office in person. In addition, each individual will have specific feelings and emotions surrounding this process.
For example, not every employee will feel comfortable with a two-week transition from working at home to back in the office. However, keeping an open mind and understanding where each staff member is in their work journey will ease any anxiety and trepidation they may feel about returning to normal business operations.
Some individuals may want to remain working with a hybrid model that combines a remote workstation with in-person office attendance. If your organization can accommodate staff who prefer a combination of these settings, it can help reduce anxiety while still having productive employees.
Ask for feedback
Companies that ask for constructive feedback from their employees can better understand what the staff needs to succeed. In addition, employers can put their team at ease by listening to their ideas or concerns and can provide a safe space for employees to share while finding a workable compromise. Consider implementing one-on-one meetings or open forum team meetings to foster communication and offer support.
Considering suggestions from staff members who feel anxious about returning to the office can shed some light on how to make the process less stressful for everyone. However, employers mustn’t make promises they cannot keep. Instead, listen to employees’ feedback and ensure that the management team will evaluate the suggestions with care and attention.
Parting thoughts
Transitioning from remote work to in-office can create anxiety in many employees. However, organizations that prepare appropriately for this process can successfully help manage their staff members’ stress as they navigate back to the office.
Companies should keep an open mind, be flexible, and be supportive of their employees at every stage in the return-to-work transition. Staff that feels supported and safe in their work environment will be happier, healthier, and more productive. This will definitely increase the quality of work across the organization.
