See full version: 5 Worries People Are Having About Returning To The Office
“All the freedoms we enjoy in our home offices ― wearing whatever pants you like, structuring the day so it fits you better than the default 9-5, taking a quick half-hour nap if a work problem stresses you out ― that’s all about to go away.”
If you’re dreading a return to the office, it’s not just you: About 1 in 4 workers currently working from home due to the coronavirus would prefer to stay fully remote, according to a March survey of more than 1,000 U.S. workers.
“It’s more than that for many, though,” Warrell added. “Others are nervous or anxious about the health risks and anxious about their ability to make the adjustment.”
“Spending all that time, effort and money and now having to go back to the pre-pandemic routine seems like it was all for naught,” said Jonas, who lives in Erlangen, Germany. [links]
Below, employees share five concerns about going back to work that are keeping them up at night, from worries about lax mask ordinances to fears about experiencing racial harassment on commutes for Asian American workers. Plus, we asked experts like Warrell for advice on making the transition as easy as possible.
Over the last year, Caitlyn, a licensing specialist in the health insurance industry in Iowa, has been in and out of her office. Her workforce was first called back in June, only to be sent back home shortly after when an employee tested positive for COVID-19. They returned to the office later in the month, but in early November, roughly 30 people in the office tested positive, so it was back to work from home.
Reorganization or Better Facilities
Companies often find that their current office facilities are too outdated to carry out their tasks efficiently, or they wish to give their company a new image by moving to more modernized facilities. Moving to an office with better facilities can dramatically improve your company image, allow for more space, and improve productivity.
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An office move has countless moving parts. Where do you start? Keep reading. "Guru" of office moving, Ed Katz, has you covered! more
The retailer now offers a weekly guide on its website for outfit options, as its customers are preparing for the "new normal." "It can sometimes be difficult trying to dress for the office, and working from home," the blog post reads. here
"The tailored clothing industry has already suffered enough and is now in even worse trouble," Shugar said. "And it's not coming back the way some people think it is." more
On Monday, it suggested a more casual look — a "jardigan" (half jacket, half cardigan) and sneakers — for working from home after the weekend. Tuesday requires a more elevated look for a day in the office, according to M.M.LaFleur. But come Wednesday, you're back at home in a cozy sweater. here
Clothing company Lands' End has seen higher demand for its activewear and swimsuits this summer. Sales of sleepwear and shirts with knit and stretchy fabrics are also strong relative to other categories, according to CEO Jerome Griffith. here
Jason Press, 48, a general manager at an auto shop in Chicago: [links]
When you work in a busy office, getting things done quickly is the norm. But, there’s a difference between fast-paced and rushed. Rushing is the result of taking on too much at once. In the case of moving, that means leaving too many things to the last minute. As with most projects, your ability to move quickly and produce a good result, takes thoughtful planning. Otherwise, costly mistakes can be made. more
Provide a demonstration on how to properly lift and move objects. This is especially helpful for people whose jobs don’t normally involve such physical tasks. Ensure the proper tools—like stepladders, gloves with grips, safety glasses and hard hats—are available as necessary.
Boxes and bodies are everywhere.
The number one way to avoid this all-too-common moving problem is to put safety first. Hold a meeting before any changes take place in your office, to educate staff on company procedures. Answer questions and set safety expectations.