Return to work tips

Hi {@employeename},

As you prepare to return to work, here are some helpful tips to make your transition easier. We can’t wait to welcome you back!

One to two weeks prior to your return, please connect with your manager and someone from HR to provide any updates about your transition back.

Connect with an HR leader to discuss:

• Your return date to the office. We suggest returning to work on a Thursday or Friday. Starting back with a short week tends to ease the transition.
• Any schedule or accommodation changes. Let us know if you’d like to request a flexible or part-time schedule in your first weeks back and if you need any accommodations.

As you get ready to return, be sure to clarify key details with your leader like:

• The day you plan to return to work (after confirming with HR).
• Any changes that will affect your schedule or accommodations you might need (e.g., doctor appointments, breaks, equipment, or general accommodations that would be helpful).
• Optional: If you want to chat with {@managername} before your first day back.

In your first week back, meet with your leader to create a plan on your transition back. Here are questions to consider asking:

• Have there been any changes I need to be aware of while I was out? (e.g., reorganizations, changes in leadership, new team members, a shift in priorities for the team/group?)
• What are the current priorities for the team?
• Is there any training on new systems/processes, re-orientation, re-onboarding, etc., that I may need?
• What information can you share with me about the projects I’ll be working on? Who else should I contact to get details?

Develop a plan outlining your individual goals and learning requirements for the initial weeks upon your return. Include any career aspirations you aim to accomplish within the upcoming 6-12 months.

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed after coming back from a [insert type of leave]. Give yourself time to adjust and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Let your leader or HR department know if there is support you need.

There may be people who inquire about your leave. Only share what you are comfortable with. If you can’t come up with an answer you’re comfortable sharing, simply thank them for their concern and let them know you just can’t talk about it. You never have to share your health details with your coworkers if you’re uncomfortable doing so.