Navigating the Shift: Essential Strategies for Returning to Office Life After Remote Work

The Challenge of Returning to the Office

After years of working from home, many employees are facing the daunting task of returning to the office full-time. This shift can be particularly challenging for those who have adjusted their lives around remote work, especially parents and caregivers.

Jason LaCroix, a senior systems engineer, exemplifies this struggle. After being laid off from a remote position, he now finds himself commuting three hours daily to an office four days a week, which impacts his ability to be present for his children.

The Need for Flexibility

Experts agree that flexibility is key. Mark Ma, a professor at the University of Pittsburgh, emphasizes that employees appreciate having a say in their work schedules. Companies that enforce rigid return-to-office policies often face high turnover rates, particularly among female employees who juggle childcare responsibilities.

Seeking Compromise

Employers should consider an employee-choice approach that allows teams to determine their in-office days. For instance, LaCroix adjusted his hours to minimize traffic and maximize family time. Shavon Terrell-Camper, a mental wellness coach, notes that many workers are exploring creative solutions to maintain some flexibility, such as “coffee badging,” where employees swipe in and out without actually working in the office.

Communicating Needs

It's crucial for employees to communicate their personal needs with management. Programs that assist with family caregiving can provide valuable resources. Amy Dufrane, CEO of the Human Resource Certification Institute, advises being upfront about your situation and asking for support.

Weighing Job Options

In a competitive job market, finding a fully remote job can be a challenge. Some individuals, like Holly Keerikatte, have opted for remote roles that allow greater family time, even if it means sacrificing a higher salary.

Finding Positives in the Transition

While returning to the office may feel daunting, there are opportunities for building relationships and fostering collaboration. Employers can help ease this transition by organizing team-building activities that promote camaraderie and open communication.

Deborah Ann DeSnoo, a video director, emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interaction, stating, "You can read the air in a different way, and you find a solution."