Tag Archives: how to return to work

How to Return to Work After an Extended Break

With no sign of the COVID pandemic coming to an end, millions of employees continue to be furloughed under the government’s job retention scheme and kept away from work. Although the furlough scheme will end on 31 October, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced a new job support scheme in its place, which will extend the period that some employees have been away from the workplace to more than six months.

Returning to work after such a long absence can be daunting. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the steps that furloughed workers and career breakers can take to smooth their path back to the workplace.

1. Stay in touch with colleagues and superiors

Such a long spell away from work can create a sense of isolation and anxiety about your return. Checking in with colleagues and your employer at least once a month is a simple way to feel more confident when you go back to work. They can update you on new processes, new faces and any other news you might have missed, as well as giving you more information about what your return to work might look like in the new normal.

2. Consider a phased return

Rather than going straight back into a full-time role, you could potentially use annual leave to shorten your first couple of weeks or even ask your employer if they’d consider a phased return. At the very worst, try to make sure your first day back falls in the middle of the week, then at least some weekend respite isn’t too far away.

3. Trial your new routine

What exactly is your return to work going to look like? If you’re going to have to commute to a temporary office or new location, it’s worth familiarising yourself with the route and locating your workplace before your start date. If you’re going to be working from home, make sure you can access the relevant documents and files and you have installed any new software so you’re all ready to go.

4. Ask for help if you need it

Returning to work after a prolonged period away can be a stressful experience. That’s why, if you need help, make sure you speak up. You may want some training on a new piece of software or be unsure how to access the relevant documents you need from home. Whatever the issue, remove the obstacles early on so you can return to work with confidence and feel comfortable in your role.

Don’t want to return to your old role?

Are you dreading returning to your job? At Linguistica Recruitment, we help bilingual candidates secure well-paid and rewarding positions across the south coast. Take a look at our current vacancies, submit your CV or call 02392 987 765 to discuss your requirements with our team.