Back to The Office

After more than a year of distance work, some companies have begun preparing the return to the office as many are vaccinated and the rules have eased. For those of you who may intend to return, this may come as a shock. It is therefore important to take this into account and ensure a smooth transition from online work back to the office. This may require preparation. Here we list some points that employers can use as a basis.

General Tips ⭐

  • Plan and divide assignments and activities in the company between those that can be done remotely and those that need to be done in the workplace.
  • Introduce schedules and plans for everything that can be done over a long period of time.
  • Inform clearly about changes in the office before returning. Inform about new processes, rules, systems, restrictions, etc.

Health Strategy and Safety 🌼

  • Have a testing strategy in case of symptoms to prevent the spread of infection.
  • Have a protocol for when an employee has COVID-19.
  • Plan which assignments and activities are offered to people in risk groups.
  • Have a clear social distance in the office.
  • Have hand sanitizer and masks on hand in the office.
  • Plan for the use of common areas such as kitchens and toilets.
  • Start with follow-ups on how your employees are feeling, both physically and mentally. This can be done weekly or monthly.

Meetings and travel 🛬

  • Can you minimize travel?
  • Create rules and recommendations for travel during working hours.
  • Provide protective equipment for your employees during business trips.
  • Meetings should take place at an appropriate social distance.
  • For larger meetings, employees should continue with digital meetings.

Management 👩‍💼

  • Make sure all managers have updated health and safety strategies in the office.
  • Clarify which regulations managers must carry out and which actions take place when they are not followed by the employees.
  • Encourage feedback from employees.
  • Get extra training to help managers with a smooth and effective transition.

There is no doubt that the past year has been tough and challenging, but getting back to the office and the workplace does not have to be as tough or stressful. If you choose to return to the office, do not worry about experiencing this transition yourself as your colleagues, managers, and companies have preventive strategies to ensure a smooth and safe transition. You as an employee and colleague can even encourage your management to keep this “to-do list” in mind. Stay safe and stronger together!

 

Text av Sarah Tavakol

Publicerad av Emil Bjerenius