Going back to work. (A little.)
Here's what you need to know.
A number of our clients are now at least talking about, if not actively in some sort of back to work mode. Some are hybrid, some are optional hybrid, and some have a plan for returning in January. Whatever the case, even as a consultant, you may find yourself at some point in the near-ish future, facing someone who wants to see you off screen. Ready? (Neither are we, but here goes.)
Re-up your masks. I’m going to assume you're vaccinated. And that if you’re eligible for a booster, you’re getting one. (And under the ADA, an employer can have a workplace policy that includes "a requirement that an individual shall not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of individuals in the workplace.") But the days of “I’m vaxxed so no mask” are over with breakthrough cases. The good news: Since the first time we started wearing masks, they’ve improved a lot. You’ve probably noticed. We figured out what masks work for our face shapes, and mask makers got the materials down, too. Gather and edit all your existing masks. Wash the ones you still like. I use Soak wash, which you don’t have to rinse out. Love the pomegranate! And pick up a few more that go with your work outfits and make you feel great (ish).
Cushion the ride. Chances are, you’re not getting back on public transportation. If you’re not normally a daily driver and/or have to go long distances, it can really hurt your back. It hurt mine! Slipping a back bolster with acupuncture -mimicking features under my lower back in the car seat was a huge relief.
And use road time wisely. Some of us really miss that time on a train to get a jump on work. Can you still do that on the road, safely? Kinda. You can listen to books and podcasts, of course. You can ask Siri to read all your texts from contacts you name. I also like using the time to brainstorm. Before you go, start a note on your smartphone with a title, say, “naming.” Then you can ask Siri, “add to my notes.” Siri will ask which you want to add to, and you say “naming” and go. Enunciate clearly. It takes practice.
Meet outside. I recently went to an all-vaccinated dinner where we ate indoors due to rain. One of the attendees later found she had COVID. I didn’t, but I was terrified, and then had to quarantine. If you can, take meetings outside. ( I’ve always liked to take a meeting as a walk, anyway, for fitness.) If you can’t, test and wait before you see older parents, etc. And ask for windows to be open if possible.
Fix the coffee sitch. You want to go into work, do what you need to do (the things that are truly meaningful face to face, ideally) and then get out. The less time in the elevator and kitchen, the better. Get a good coffee system in place in advance so you’re not also running for takeout, etc. Also, make sure you have a to-go mug that actually fits in the car cup holder. Surprisingly, they’re not universal.
Pack lunch. And eat it at a distance. (See above.) And if it’s your call, don’t host lunch meetings, as people have to be unmasked to eat.
Prep some tests. Home testing has gotten easier and more (not 100%, but more) accurate.
Own the awkward. Everyone is nervous, and our chatter skills are rusty. It feels weird to be with coworkers IRL. As always, we’re big proponents of being authentic about it. If you flub a little or have a slow start in a meeting, it’s fine to say “it’s been a minute since I’ve been out in real life, forgive me,” and laugh.
Get out of your comfies. As long as you’re taking the risk of getting in front of people, make it count. Spiff yourself up. Now’s not the time to continue your 100 day no-real pants streak. So many brands these days do washable, comfort work clothes there's really no excuse. My nephew loves Bonobos’ WFHQ pants, which don’t require WFH. Personally, I like a long cotton dress, or a pair of silky joggers and a soft blazer.
And get into collaborating. Take plenty of distanced meetings. Get off email, and tell a colleague - let’s chat outside! Leaders, look for unique, safer spaces outdoors, under tents, etc. Start large scale pin boards with tacked up inspiration, big enough for a couple people to stand in front of and still be 6 feet apart. Look at products and/or samples as often as possible, because there’s real value to that. Play golf with clients or vendors while weather allows. You’re not here to stare at a monitor; you can do that at home.