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Navigating the challenges of (RTO) return to the office.

3 Min Read |September 16, 2021
Navigating the challenges of (RTO) return to the office.
3 Min Read |September 16, 2021

In a recent Wall Street Journal article, “How to Rally a Jittery Workforce Back at the Office,” a creative agency executive shared insights into the complexities of employees returning to the workplace. The dynamics described offer a glimpse into the emotional and logistical hurdles many companies may face during this transition.

 

The awkward interactions of reentry.

The executive observed uneasiness among coworkers as they returned to close proximity after extended remote work. Audible sighs from colleagues signaled discomfort, potentially reflecting feelings of entrapment or despondency. While the details weren’t fully explored, these anecdotes highlight the rough transition many employees may experience, reminiscent of the initial challenges of remote work during the pandemic.

 

What does returning to the office mean?

On the surface, going back to the office might seem straightforward. After all, it’s where most employees spent years pre-COVID. However, the psychological impact of this shift is profound. For many, it represents a major change in routine and a loss of autonomy. This transition may also evoke feelings of separation from loved ones or concerns about safety, particularly for parents who spent extended time with their children or employees who valued the flexibility of remote work.

These concerns are backed by data. A recent survey by Envoy found that two-thirds of U.S. employees are anxious about returning to the office.

 

The emotional labor of transition.

Managers must recognize that returning to the office introduces unique stresses. Employees may struggle with:

  • Loss of control. Giving up the ability to manage their hourly schedules can be jarring.

  • Safety concerns. In workplaces where vaccinations aren’t required, employees may feel uneasy about health risks.

  • Work-life balance shifts. The pandemic blurred the lines between work and home, but returning to the pre-pandemic norm of separating the two can introduce new stresses.


Reconciling old and new expectations.

For some managers, the office symbolizes focus and productivity, where employees are expected to prioritize work exclusively. This transition could feel oppressive for those who thrived working from home. Companies that don’t offer hybrid work options may face resistance from employees who feel disconnected from rigid office-centric policies.

 

The learning curve for hybrid workplaces.

Organizations adopting hybrid work models face unique challenges. Both employees and managers must navigate:

  1. New protocols.

    • Employees need clarity on when to be in the office. Some companies in Australia, where office returns began earlier, have faced “midweek crowding,” with most employees coming in on Wednesdays and Thursdays. This creates logistical challenges for employers looking to downsize office space.

  2. Building trust in hybrid policies.

    • Employees may question if hybrid work is genuinely supported or if choosing remote days could hinder career progression.

  3. Managing remote teams.

    • Managers inexperienced with remote work must learn new skills to maintain cohesion and motivation in hybrid teams.

  4. Alternative workspace options.

    • Not all employees find home conducive to work. A vast global network of flexible workspaces provides alternatives like coworking areas, private offices, and meeting rooms. Tools like LiquidSpace Enterprise enable companies to offer curated, on-demand workspace solutions, allowing employees to book spaces that suit their needs. Learn more at liquidspace.com

Ending on a positive note.

Despite the challenges, many employees may find a partial return to the office a refreshing change. For some, it could provide much-needed structure and social interaction, offering a boost to mental health and workplace camaraderie. While transitions are rarely without bumps, with thoughtful planning and open communication, organizations can help their teams thrive in this new era of work.