Tips for returning to work after a leave of absence

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!

⚠️ Note for Pyn admin: This Pyn is written for someone who is returning from an extended LOA due to reasons other than their own illness or maternity/paternity (e.g., maybe they took time off to care for a family member or have taken time off to school kids at home, etc.). 

1-2 weeks before: Connect with Human Resources to schedule your return date and set up a “plan for return meeting” 

Schedule a call with your HR or benefits representative to discuss:

1. Your return date to the office. We suggest returning to work on a Thursday or Friday on that first week back. It’ll make your transition back to work easier. 
2. Any schedule or accommodation changes. Let us know if you would like to request changes to your scheduled hours or other accommodations. 

1 week before: Email your manager and plan your return

Communication is key! It is likely you have been communicating with your manager during your leave. But before you get ready to return, be sure to connect about a few key details like:

1. The day you plan to return to the office (after confirming with HR).
2. Any changes that will affect your schedule or accommodations you might need (e.g., shifting working hours or general accommodations that would be helpful). It might be something like shifting your schedule to an earlier start. Or, it could be something like altering your schedule to accommodate needed appointments. 
3. Optional: It’d be nice to meet with your manager either via phone or in-person before your first day back.  
4. Optional: You might want to notify coworkers you’re friendly with of your return. Having colleagues in your corner who support you and care about your transition can help you ease your way back into the swing of things. 

Here’s a sample email to your manager:

Subject: Return to Work Update  Dear [manager’s name], I am getting excited about my return to the office. After speaking with Human Resources, [Month DD, YYYY] will be my first official day back in the office. Do you have time to meet for coffee the week before my return? It would be helpful for me to catch up on the latest projects and be filled in on your priority tasks for me. If not, let's definitely schedule some time on the morning of my return. [Share any particular schedule changes or time restrictions: For example: On Thursdays, I'll be arriving at the office early but will have to leave at 4:30 p.m. Please let me know if you think this schedule change is a problem.] I am looking forward to getting back to work and will see you soon. Best,

In your first week back: Create 30-day and 90-day plans with your manager

Discuss specific goals and learning needs during your first 30 and 90 days back. 

Your plans may also include details for project handovers from your team or ramping your schedule or normal work activities back up.

After your return: remember to be kind to yourself

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed after coming back from an extended leave of absence. Give yourself time to adjust to your new reality. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Maybe you need to work from home more. Or, you need to shift some of your duties for a while. Let your manager or HR department know what’s going on and see what solutions they can offer.

This is a transition - it’s important to acknowledge that and the learning curve it comes with. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. And most of all, be patient and kind to yourself. Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength and there will be many people who want to support you.

There also may be people who inquire about your leave or ask questions. Hopefully, they come from a well-meaning and caring place. Only share what you are comfortable with. If you can’t come up with an answer you’re comfortable sharing, simply thank your coworkers for their concern and let them know you just can’t talk about it. You never have to share your leave of absence details with your coworkers if you’re uncomfortable doing so.