Charm and Disarm
Returning to the workplace and in person encounters after 18 months of working from home may present challenges to some, but for many, it is also a welcomed transition.
Salman Raza has 5 tips for re-navigating culture and personalities as we leave the virtual world behind.
1>> REMEMBER YOU CAN BE SEEN
When you’re working remotely, you can, for example, tap your foot under your desk to
release anxious energy or fiddle with your phone during a virtual meeting without being seen. This is not to say these behaviours are acceptable, but you can get away with them in a virtual workspace.
In the office, however, a key tip is to remember that you can be seen. When your boss is giving a presentation, he or she can read your body language. Do you appear alert and engaged or are you slouched or daydreaming? Facial and body expressions need to align with expectations because if not, this can cause an uncomfortable conversation or situation after the event.
What about that coworker who is not your favourite person? When he or she sends you emails or calls you, your body may react with an eye roll or a heavy sigh. Be mindful of your tone of voice, posture, eye contact, and other behaviours when interacting with your colleagues and superiors in person. This awareness will strengthen your relationships and pave the way for a harmonious work environment.
2>> DETACH BEHAVIOUR FROM EMOTION
When you are angry, take a moment to explore why you are angry. Then, detach behaviour from emotion. Instead of thinking “I’m angry,” revisit that phrase and say: “ ere is anger in me. What can I do to get rid of it?” Recognise the office may not have the same comforts your virtual or home environment had. When you were upset, you could walk around your house, do some chores or blast your favourite music.
However, do what you can to give yourself some space from the situation like getting a cup of tea or going for a quick walk. Also, remind yourself all feelings and emotions are okay but not all behaviours are. You can’t punch your colleague in the face because they said something offensive, but your feelings of offense and anger are completely valid.
3>> RE-FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH PERSONALITY TYPES
Before returning to the office, you may want to brush up on personality types and their different behaviours which are extraordinarily helpful when it comes to navigating office politics.
For example, when you know that Sarah is an introvert and requires 10 seconds of silence before responding to a question and that Evelyn is an extrovert who will answer a question immediately, but the crux of the answer may come 30-40 seconds after a stream of consciousness response, you can better prepare yourself for interacting with these individuals. Likewise, knowing those who like to meticulously plan and those who like to “wing it” can help you to manage your dealings with them.
Also, identify where you fit on the Meyers-Brigg’s Type Indicator (MBTI) which is a self-help assessment test that helps people gain insights on their personality and about how they work and learn. When you take steps to acknowledge your own ego and personality traits, you can articulate to others what you need to be happy, productive and engaged in your work and place of work.
4>> SEEK SUPPORT AND SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER
A sure fire way to strengthen your office relationships is to support your colleagues emotionally, as best as you can. With the awareness of personality types, you can further gauge what you can do to help them along the way. Maybe it is as simple as sharing your working from home stories at the water cooler. Or offering tips on how to spruce up the office to make the return feel like a fresh start, full of possibility. You will also probably encounter personality types who thrived in the remote environment, those who love flexible timetables and the freedom to work from anywhere (maybe you are one of them!). These personality types are going to have a tougher time readjusting to the in-person workspace so be kind to them and support them during their transition.
Don’t be afraid to ask for support as well.
We’re all human and we all need support from time to time. Instead of letting your concerns and insecurities fester beneath the surface, only to rear their head in a form of passive aggression, talk to the appropriate parties to find a solution.
5>> EMBRACE THE POSITIVES
Humans are social creatures. We learn by interacting with others.
We make lasting friendships and build our support system through one-on- one interactions. Even if you find the transition back to the office difficult, try to find some positive aspects to this 'return to normality'. It could be how Connor’s booming laugher always makes you smile or how much you love Claire’s delicious “just because” brownies that she bakes from the heart. Whatever the reason, write it down. Consider making a gratitude journal and list all the positive elements. That way, when you’re feeling stuck, stunted, or discouraged, you can return to your list and recall a few things you are grateful for.
This is an unprecedented time that millions of people around the world are facing. Remember you are not alone and there are many wonderful things to learn from, absorb and enjoy when you return to your work environment. All it takes is a little awareness, a little patience and an open mind.
Salman Raza is the author of Life's Non-Conformities: An Auditor's Tale of Practical Application of Social, Emotional & Behavioral Strategies. Available now