Preparing for Your First day Back

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As more states start to open up after being in lockdown, many professionals are preparing for a return to work. This can be a stressful time, as individuals manage both expectations and emotions related to a broad range of issues. But it’s good to think about other situations that may have prepared you in a way for such a moment. Getting ready to get back to work (after a crisis or any extended term leave) is a part of many situations. Mothers who have taken maternity leave prepare for just this situation. Employees who suffered an injury or illness that required them to take leave also have a very similar range of emotions. There’s a lot to be learned from their experiences. Here are a few ways you can make the transition easier for yourself, and prepare for both the changes and the struggles that will come with that experience.   

Take Notes and Listen Up  

There may be a fair amount that you need to learn on your first day back, from new safety procedures to social distancing requirements. It can be helpful to take notes to help keep it all straight. When so much is on the line, the last thing you want to do is worry that you’ve forgotten something important. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions or get clarity where you need it. These are unprecedented times and what your company may be doing in response to the risks may be different than what you expected.   

Plan Out Your Day  

It can feel overwhelming to some, returning to work. Do what you need to do to balance your responsibilities at work and home. Planning your day can help get you in the right frame of mind for when that first day back on the job comes. Of course, not everything may go to plan, but when you take the time to think through what you would like to do and accomplish, you have a map for what your day should look like. Flexibility is important, but foresight and goal setting can help manage overwhelming feelings in genuine ways.   

Get Your Head in the Game  

To help you stay focused, consider taking planned breaks, and doing a little exercise as well. Both your body and your brain work together to help you stay on track, not get overwhelmed by uncertainty or new processes. Calm your “first-day jitters” and try not to worry about what other people may be thinking or trying to accomplish. Focus on doing your best work in the best way you know how.   

Consider a Gradual Return to Work Program  

Returning parents may be more familiar with this concept than others, but a Gradual Return to Work Program has long been a powerful tool to help reduce the feeling of overwhelm often accompanied by a return to work. The gradual return to work is designed to help ease people back into their jobs and reduce the feelings of anxiety about being expected to “do it all” right from the get-go. If you are going to be doing a gradual return to work, find out how long you will be expected to be at work for the first day. You may want to contact your supervisor and find out what the plan is for the first day or even the first few days. Then ask for what you know you will need. You might not get everything on your wish list, but you’ll never get something you don’t ask for it.   

Ready To Return To Work? 

The recruiters at All-Star Personnel want to discuss your skills and job placement goals.  Give us a call today or apply online to one of our great opportunities.  The best roles and shifts are filling up fast, don’t delay! 

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