Coming back to work after a long absence can feel quite disorienting, and a little nerve-wracking. There’s no need to worry of course, because you’ll be surprised just how easily you will fit back into your new normal despite how rusty you may initially feel. On top of that, it’s important to not feel out of place or unjust in taking that break, if it was important to you to do take that break, you don’t have to prove to any corporation why you’ve made the life decisions you needed to make – so keep that in mind.
Once you’ve decided to go back into the workforce or to try and launch an initiative of your own, preparation is the most important approach. For some, this might simply mean driving the commute to the new office a couple of times before starting, simply to get used to the route. For others, it might mean becoming familiar with video conferencing apps now that remote work is normalized.
In this post, we hope to help you move forward into this new normal with care and self-love:
Request Onboarding Guidance
It can’t hurt to ask your employer, no matter if you’re starting somewhere new or returning to an old workplace, to give you some time for onboarding. The workflow systems may have changed a little since you were last in that position or one like it, and as such, it’s only right that a business gives you time to adapt, and someone you can field questions with. Businesses will usually help newcomers with everything they need to feel capable in the role, but sometimes if you don’t ask, you might not get.
Invest In Educational Resources
For some, the road back to work means investing in educational programs or accreditations to ensure they’re up to date with the necessary knowledge and requirements going forward. For instance, engaging in a prince2 certification course can ensure all of the technical knowledge, management experience and workflow for IT project management is available; allowing you to dive into your renewed official role with further confidence, the cobwebs dusted, and the most current knowledge and understanding thoroughly on your side.
Become Comfortable With Networking Again
Becoming comfortable with networking again means once again resting in the social and connective norms of your workplace or industry at large. This can be as simple as establishing B2B connections once more; or it might mean connecting with old colleagues and asking what they’ve been up to, potentially securing you an opportunity. At the very least, pleasant and approachable candor in your new workplace will help you feel more at home when making work friends, allowing you to settle in more easily and get help where you need it. Some even use online resources to simulate this approach, like discussing freelance writing online with others in the field.
With this advice, you’re certain to return to your professional life after a long absence. Going forward, this will help you thrive.