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How to help employees manage their reentry anxiety

Reentry anxiety is a genuine concern for employees returning to the workplace, particularly in a post-pandemic world. This article focuses on helping you manage this transition smoothly, ensuring that your team’s well-being and productivity remain intact. Completing this reading will give you a more profound grasp of how to back your staff and allay their anxieties about reintegration into the workplace.

Reentry anxiety is a genuine concern for employees returning to the workplace, particularly in a post-pandemic world. 

This article focuses on helping you manage this transition smoothly, ensuring that your team’s well-being and productivity remain intact. 

Completing this reading will give you a more profound grasp of how to back your staff and allay their anxieties about reintegration into the workplace.

Acknowledging and Validating Concerns

First, let’s talk about empathy. Recognizing and validating your employees’ reentry anxiety is crucial. You can help by creating open communication channels and encouraging them to share whatever concerns they may have.

But remember: Listening is key! Encourage empathetic responses. That way, you can foster a supportive work environment.

Providing Clear Guidelines and Expectations

Next, let’s clarify the guidelines. Returning employees need clear expectations. This can drastically reduce the uncertainty associated with reentry and boost employee confidence.

Here are some crucial aspects to consider. 

  • Establishing safety protocols – The World Health Organization suggests various safety protocols for businesses reopening their premises. This includes regular disinfection of surfaces, wearing masks, and maintaining social distancing. Your organization should implement these and be transparent about them.
  • Defining work schedules – As per a 2022 Gallup poll, over 60% of employees prefer at least some level of remote work. In response, consider introducing hybrid work schedules or staggered working hours. This not only satisfies the employees’ preferences but also curtails the total count of personnel in the office at any one time.
  • Setting performance standards: – According to Harvard Business Review, post-pandemic work dynamics require revisiting performance metrics. Make sure these are realistic and consider the transition period’s challenges.

Here are some steps to effectively communicate these guidelines.

  • Develop a comprehensive plan – This should include all your protocols, schedules, and performance metrics.
  • Use multiple communication channels – Distribute this plan via email, company intranet, or physical handouts. Consider conducting informational sessions or webinars to explain these guidelines.
  • Encourage feedback: Allow employees to voice their concerns or suggestions regarding these guidelines.
  • Regular updates: The situation may change over time, requiring updates to your plan. Ensure these changes are communicated promptly and clearly.

Improving Access Control Systems

A commercial key fob system can provide advanced features that enhance workplace safety and can drastically reduce the apprehensions associated with reentry.

Here are the benefits these solutions can provide.

  • Enhanced security – Key fob systems provide a higher security level than traditional lock and key systems. With a key fob, access can be easily controlled and monitored.
  • Controlled access – Key fobs can be programmed to grant access to specific areas based on the individual’s role within the company. This means you can effectively manage who gets access to where thus limiting unnecessary interactions and ensuring social distancing guidelines are met.
  • Reduced contact: – In a post-pandemic world, we’re all more cautious about shared surfaces. Key fobs reduce the need for contact with them, thus helping to alleviate the health concerns related to virus transmission. According to a CDC report, the risk of infection through contaminated surfaces is still a concern for many employees, hence the significant role played by no-contact technologies like key fobs.

Identifying the most suitable system for your office environment necessitates examining your specific requirements and the distinctive structure of your workplace. Here are some steps to guide you.

  • Evaluate your needs – Start by understanding the scope of your needs. How many doors do you need to control? What are the security requirements of each area?
  • Choose the right provider – Look for providers with a good track record and reliable customer service. They should be able to provide the system and offer ongoing maintenance.
  • Customize your system – Work with your provider to customize your system. This might include determining who has access to certain areas and at what times.
  • Implement and train – Once the system is in place, ensure that employees understand how to use it. Offer training if needed and ensure all employees have their personalized key fobs.

Reinforcing Workplace Flexibility

Now, let’s talk about flexibility. A flexible workspace can go a long way in helping employees alleviate their reentry anxiety. 

Think of hot desking, quiet zones, and collaboration areas. Also, consider implementing flexible work policies like remote work options and adjustable schedules. These can accommodate the unique needs of each employee.

Offering Mental Health Support

A 2022 study by Oracle and Workplace Intelligence claimed that 78% of the world workforce reported adverse impacts on their mental health due to the pandemic. Hence, providing support to these employees is a priority.

Here are ways to offer that support.

  • Counseling services – Providing access to professional mental health counselors can be invaluable. They are capable of helping staff address worries, stress, and any additional mental health complications that might surface during this period of transition. The American Psychological Association has found that short-term, problem-solving approaches can effectively help individuals manage emotional challenges associated with change.
  • Mental health resources – This could include online self-help resources, informational webinars, or mental health apps. For instance, the National Alliance on Mental Illness offers various resources that can be beneficial for employees.
  • Stress management workshops – Workshops can equip employees with tools to handle stress effectively. This can range from mindfulness practices to time management skills. A 2021 research published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine presented evidence that mindfulness exercises can significantly decrease perceived stress and worker burnout.

Even further, the World Health Organization includes burnout in its International Classification of Diseases, identifying work-life imbalance as a significant contributing factor. Here is what organizations can do to prevent this.

  • Encourage regular breaks during work hours.
  • Respect boundaries by avoiding communication outside work hours.
  • Promote physical health through regular exercise, good nutrition, and adequate sleep.

Encouraging Team Building

Team building and social interactions are crucial for a sense of belonging. Organize activities and events that are safe and inclusive. 

Remember, team leaders play a key role in facilitating these interactions and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Monitoring Progress

Keep an eye on employees’ reentry experiences. Gather feedback through surveys, meetings, and informal discussions. And don’t forget: Adjust your strategies based on evolving needs.

So there you have it! With these strategies, you can help your employees navigate their reentry anxiety. And remember, patience is key. This is a journey for everyone. Be supportive of your team, and they will support you back.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/howie-robleza/

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