How to Rejoin the Working World with Confidence After COVID
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It’s time to resurface from pandemic exile and get your professional life back on track
Many careers were impacted negatively by COVID-19, and the pandemic changed how all of us worked. The Pew Research Center found that one in five workers surveyed said they had “less job security” and “fewer opportunities for advancement” now than a year ago.
Even if you are one of the four out of five who has emerged relatively unscathed from this global economic and social crisis, you may be feeling a bit apprehensive about rejoining your professional crowd in real life.
Here are five suggestions for easing reentry and repositioning yourself for future success:
1. Lean into change
The pandemic forced most of us to adjust to a new way of working. And the changes involved in getting back to some version of pre-pandemic professional norms can also be unsettling. Having some fear or anxiety about returning to “real life” is common and understandable. Many professionals have expressed worry about lingering health risks or disappointment for not accomplishing more in their time working from home.
Periods of chaos force companies and individuals to adapt more quickly than they would under normal circumstances. Professionals at every step of the career ladder may be feeling some effects of the nearly year-long upheaval. Leaders have had to deal with navigating their company through previously unimagined challenges and may be regrouping with fewer staff members. Team members who have been working remotely may need to get accustomed to a hybrid staffing model that could include a shared workspace.
If you feel like nothing seems comfortable or familiar, make your peace with it. And commit to replacing the old with something better. Being flexible increases your worth as a leader and team player. Instead of fighting change, look for ways to use it to your advantage.
2. Reemerge with a new perspective
It’s possible the past year has left you feeling a bit stuck. If you are in a professional rut and unsure of how to proceed, it may be time to reframe your mindset. Try to see this period as an opportunity for career growth.
The best way to conquer apprehension or malaise is to deal with it head-on. Rather than settling into a “groove of negativity," consider your ultimate goals and career destination and “forge a path to yes.” This transition period may be uncomfortable and stressful. But believing you will come out of it closer to where you want to be professionally can help.
And don’t forget that what most people managed to pull off is extraordinary. You are back at work after a period of fear and uncertainty — and you are intact. Now, focus on what you want to accomplish next.
3. Update yourself on industry trends
The industry did not stop while you were away from the office, so it's essential to be well-versed in what is going on in your sector. Research the most respected thought leaders in your field and follow their content online. It’s okay if you didn’t keep up while you were away from the office and might have had extra time on your hands. Start making up for lost time now.
There may be a new area of concentration in your field of expertise that has arisen to meet the challenges of the pandemic. Are there practice areas in your firm that need extra help now?
Also, be sure you are up to date on any new technologies that may impact the way you work. It may be time to upgrade your technological skills from basic Zoom mastery. If you spent your time away from the office learning a new work-related skill, find ways to apply and share your knowledge.
4. Keep lines of communication open
If you are balancing a hybrid work schedule or returning to the office full-time, you may find being around people again a bit of a challenge. Ease the reentry by pacing yourself. You don’t need to transform from a homebound hermit to a social butterfly overnight.
Keep in mind that many colleagues are likely experiencing the same anxieties and feelings of discomfort. Learn how to engage with each other in person again by injecting some joy and humor into your workplace.
5. Be patient with yourself
This global turn of events has disrupted life for everyone, and accepting a certain level of chaos is necessary to maintain our mental health. It’s important to cut yourself some slack and temper any expectations.
Regardless of how you spent this weird worldwide pause, commit to entering the next phase of your life — post-pandemic or at least post-vaccination — with a positive outlook and an openness to adaptation.
Carrington Legal Search is celebrating 20 years in business: we were in the trenches with our clients during 9/11 and 2008. We partner with our clients to identify leaders and mission-critical talent to shore up and grow companies even during the most challenging times. We are here for you! To make our nationwide network work for you, get in touch at 512-627-7467 or email carrie@carringtonlegal.com.