Returning to Work: The Agony and The Ecstasy

This past week I had the opportunity to catch up with a client of mine. He had just returned to the work force after a one year absence. Of course, he was glad to
be back at work. He was also facing some challenges. He fully understands that
it is his responsibility to jump in and get with the program as soon as
possible.

The challenges he faces have to do with getting re-acclimated at work. After
discussing it for a bit, here are some lessons-learned that we both decided
needed sharing:

• When you have been off work for an extended period of time, you
  may experience a feeling that is similar to jet lag. Your body and mind may no longer be used to keeping a 9 to 5 (and beyond) type of schedule. If possible start your new schedule BEFORE you actually start your new job.
• Be patient with yourself and during the first month, keep
  extra-curricular activities to a minimum.
• You might find yourself dealing with some difficult emotions. Sometimes feelings about your prior job or about having been out of work will be triggered by your return to work.
• Reacquaint yourself with the required tools and techniques and of
  course office etiquette. If this means you need to spend some of your own time becoming comfortable with some of the tools you use (business software for example), then take the initiative and do it.
• Set aggressive yet reasonable goals with yourself for becoming
  accustomed to the work place.

There is also a very important lesson learned for those of you welcoming colleagues back to the workforce. Extend patience and empathy. This does not mean that it is OK if someone cannot perform the job, it does mean be fair and allow them some time to fit in. Just because they forget a thing or two does not make them lazy or stupid.

Hopefully we will be seeing more and more people returning to the workforce, let’s welcome them with open arms and open minds.

If you have a question about the human side of the workplace, just ask Margaret by sending your questions to Ask@MargaretMeloni.com.