Going back to office? Remember these tips on workplace etiquette

[WORLD] The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically reshaped the workplace, accelerating the shift to remote and hybrid work models. Now, as businesses gradually transition back to in-person work, many employees find themselves returning to the office after years of working from home. This shift presents a unique set of challenges, not just for adapting to a new routine but also for navigating workplace etiquette.

Office dynamics have evolved, and how you interact with your colleagues, whether in person or through hybrid setups, can impact your success and your workplace relationships. To help make this transition as smooth as possible, here are key workplace etiquette tips to keep in mind when returning to the office.

1. Be Flexible with New Work Arrangements

As companies shift toward hybrid models, there may be a lot of variations in how employees are expected to work. Some will continue working from home a few days a week, while others may be required to be in the office full-time. To foster a collaborative environment, it's essential to remain flexible and adapt to these changing work arrangements.

Quote: “Expectations around work arrangements are no longer black and white,” says business expert and workplace coach, Emily Mayhew. “Flexibility and open-mindedness are key.”

Tip: Communicate with your team to set clear expectations about hybrid schedules and in-office days. Understanding each other's preferences and constraints can reduce friction and ensure smoother cooperation.

2. Mind Your Timing

After working remotely for a long time, adjusting to the office hours and the pace of in-person work can be challenging. Being mindful of how you use your time and how you respect others' time is an essential part of office etiquette.

Start by arriving on time, respecting meetings and deadlines, and not overbooking yourself. While remote work has its own flexibility, in-person work often requires more structure.

Tip: Try to limit distractions during meetings, give people the floor to speak, and stick to agendas. This shows respect for your colleagues’ time.

3. Refresh Your Communication Skills

Working remotely has forced us to become more reliant on digital communication methods like email, video calls, and chat. Returning to the office, however, means more face-to-face communication, which requires a different set of skills.

Quote: “In-person communication allows for better nuance and understanding, but it can also lead to misunderstandings if you're not careful with tone and delivery,” says Emily Mayhew. “Sharpening your communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, is key to success in a traditional office setting.”

Tip: Practice active listening, and maintain eye contact during conversations. Be mindful of body language, and remember that face-to-face interactions help foster stronger relationships.

4. Respect Personal Space

One of the most significant changes in office etiquette is the increased awareness of personal space. Even as the pandemic recedes, many people still feel more comfortable with a bit of distance from others.

In shared office spaces, it’s essential to respect your colleagues' boundaries and avoid encroaching on their personal space. While handshakes and physical greetings may be slowly returning, some people might still prefer a nod or a wave.

Tip: Be aware of office layouts, especially in open-plan offices, and ensure you're not making others feel uncomfortable by sitting too close or invading their workspace.

5. Reintroduce Socializing Slowly

In the past, office culture often revolved around spontaneous social interactions—lunch breaks, coffee chats, and after-work happy hours. However, returning to these practices after an extended period of remote work may require some adjustment.

Not everyone will be ready to jump back into office socializing, and that's perfectly okay. Respect people's boundaries when it comes to socializing and offer opportunities to reconnect in a way that feels comfortable for everyone.

Quote: “It’s important to ease back into office socializing. For some, it will take time to feel comfortable around others after spending so much time working remotely,” suggests Emily Mayhew.

Tip: Start by engaging in small group lunches or virtual happy hours if you're working in a hybrid setup. Give people the option to opt out without feeling awkward.

6. Stay Organized and Tidy

Remote work often meant that you could get away with a more casual workspace—perhaps your desk was cluttered with papers, or your background during video calls was a bit chaotic. Returning to the office, however, requires you to be more organized and conscious of your workspace.

Tip: Keep your desk neat and clear to maintain a professional atmosphere. Ensure that shared spaces like kitchens and meeting rooms are left tidy for the next person.

7. Be Mindful of Noise Levels

In many remote environments, noise levels were not a significant issue because people could easily adjust their environment to their preferences. In an office setting, noise can quickly become a distraction. Whether it’s a loud conversation, a ringing phone, or the clatter of keyboards, noise levels can impact everyone’s productivity.

Quote: “One of the simplest yet most impactful etiquette rules is being aware of your noise level,” Emily Mayhew says. “Whether you're in a meeting or on a phone call, consider how your noise may affect those around you.”

Tip: If you're talking on the phone or having a loud discussion, consider using a meeting room or stepping outside. Use headphones while listening to music or taking calls to minimize distractions.

8. Dress Appropriately for the Office

Since the pandemic, many people have grown accustomed to casual dress codes, but now that you're back in the office, it’s essential to align your attire with the company’s dress expectations.

In many companies, business casual is the norm, but certain industries may expect more formal attire. Even in hybrid models, where employees work both from home and in the office, it's crucial to dress appropriately when in the workplace.

Tip: Dress for the occasion. If unsure, err on the side of being slightly more formal until you understand the new office culture better.

9. Adjust to New Technology and Systems

During the pandemic, many organizations introduced new tools and systems to facilitate remote work. When returning to the office, you may encounter upgraded technologies, new communication platforms, or changes in how meetings are structured.

This transition requires flexibility and adaptability to get up to speed on any new software or office protocols.

Tip: Take the time to familiarize yourself with the updated technology and ask colleagues for help if you're having trouble navigating new systems.

10. Don’t Forget Health and Safety Guidelines

While many offices are operating under less stringent health guidelines than before, companies are still prioritizing the health and safety of their employees. Adhering to any existing protocols, such as sanitizing workspaces, wearing masks, or maintaining physical distancing, is essential.

Quote: “In a post-pandemic office environment, health and safety still play a significant role,” explains Emily Mayhew. “Stay informed about any ongoing measures your company has in place and follow them consistently.”

Tip: Always wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizers, and adhere to any office guidelines about hygiene or health monitoring. It shows that you respect both the workplace and your colleagues.

11. Practice Empathy and Patience

The transition back to the office will not be seamless for everyone. Some employees may have adapted more comfortably to working from home, while others may be excited to return to the office environment. Demonstrating empathy toward others' concerns and experiences is essential during this period of adjustment.

Tip: Offer support to colleagues who might be struggling with the transition, whether it’s related to adjusting to the office culture or managing work-life balance.

Returning to the office after years of working remotely presents new challenges for both employees and employers. By following these workplace etiquette tips, you can navigate the transition smoothly, foster positive relationships, and help maintain a respectful and productive office environment.

As the workplace evolves, flexibility, communication, and empathy will continue to be the cornerstones of successful in-office interactions. Embrace these changes, stay adaptable, and remember that mutual respect and consideration for others will go a long way in making your return to the office a successful one.

By practicing these simple but effective office etiquette tips, you’ll contribute positively to the workplace culture and ensure a smooth transition back to the office, making it a more productive and harmonious environment for everyone involved.