4 things to remember when returning to work

Just as you’ve gotten used to working from home, you might be getting ready to head back to the office. If things in your state are starting to open up a bit, it’s time to get used to the idea of wearing pants again. I’m kidding of course, but believe it or not, driving to work and setting up shop in your office may feel kinda strange at this point. If you find yourself preparing to return to work, here are four things to consider…

Clean your office or workspace: Since you’ve been gone, I’m sure your office has been thoroughly cleaned top to bottom, possibly numerous times. But it may still be a good idea to give your desk, computer and any other major components of your office a good cleaning when you get back to work, just for peace of mind. Nothing feels as clean to me as it does when I’m the one who’s cleaned it.

Practice top-notch hygiene: I worked at a restaurant for 2 years right after I graduated college. That job instilled a hand washing habit in me that has stayed with me ever since. If you’re not a big hand-washer, it’s probably a good time to get in the habit. COVID is hopefully starting to fade, but until it’s completely said “peace out”, it’s probably a great idea to keep up the hand washing for a while. And don’t forget to always keep some hand sanitizer on you (if you can actually find some).

Brush up on new policies and procedures: Your office is probably going to look a lot different than it did the last time you were there. There may be tape on the floor for encouraging a 6 ft. social distance, there may be less chairs in your lobby, and no doubt you’ll only being seeing half of your coworkers’ faces for a while (because of masks, not because there’s a fence in the way). There will probably be some new guidelines for common areas like the break room and restrooms, so make sure you’re aware of those changes.

Be social!: The best part about going back to work is actually being around your work fam. Even if high-fives are out, you can still share laughs and friendly banter. Take advantage and maybe even talk to that one person who you never talk to. They’ve probably missed people too!