Return-to-office (RTO) mandates are becoming more common—whether part-time, full-time, or hybrid. Nearly 40% of remote workers were required to be back in the office five days a week over the past two years (according to a TopResume survey from January 2025), Big names like Amazon and Dell have already joined the trend.
If you're among those employees getting called back to the office, you might be wondering—what should you bring? How do you adjust? And what’s actually different after all this time working from home?
You’ll need to do more than just pack up your laptop and head back in. You’ll want to rethink your daily routine, figure out a solid commute plan, set up a workspace that works for you, and maybe even refresh your work wardrobe (goodbye soft pants, hello hard pants). Not to mention, getting back to face-to-face interactions (after finally getting used to Zoom calls!) can take some adjusting.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to consider to make the transition smoother—from what to pack in your bag to how to face office life again.
Plan your commuting strategy
The impact of a return-to-office mandate isn’t always easy to adjust to—especially when it adds hours to your daily commute or leaves you stuck in traffic again. Going from rolling out of bed to catching a train or sitting in gridlock is a big shift, but planning ahead can make all the difference.
Check for route changes
If it’s been a while since you commuted, take a little time to map out your best route. Check for schedule changes, construction delays, or new transit options that could make the trip smoother.
“Relearn the ins and outs of your route,” says career coach Amanda Augustine. “Know the best times to leave to avoid traffic or explore public transportation options that could make the trip less stressful.”
Once you're familiar with the details, you can decide whether driving or taking public transportation fits your schedule and preferences.
Ask around for the best ways to get there
If you’re unsure about the best route, ask coworkers who’ve been commuting for a while or are familiar with the area. They might have valuable tips on shortcuts and the best times to travel. “Not only will you learn some useful tricks, but you’ll also start building those informal connections that can make the transition back to the office smoother,” Augustine says.
Consider eco-friendly commuting alternatives
If you’re looking for a greener or more cost-effective way to get to work, consider alternatives like carpooling, biking, or walking (if distance allows). Some companies offer commuter benefits to offset the cost of public transit or biking expenses, so it’s worth checking what’s available.
Make the most of your commute time
“Commutes are tough after working from home,” says Dominick Tomanelli, cofounder and CEO of Promobile Marketing, who returned to the office in May 2024 after four years of working from home. “I was hitting snooze, rushing, sitting in traffic, and by the time I got to my desk, I was already on edge.”
To make your commute more manageable, try changing your mindset. “What helped me most was accepting that traffic is often out of my control, so I focused on making the drive less frustrating,” Tomanelli says. “Sometimes I called a friend or family member during the drive. When I took the train, I used that time to clear out emails or read up on the industry. It felt like I was taking back the time instead of losing it.”
Create a workspace that works for you
Whether you're returning to a cubicle, an open office, or a dedicated desk, setting up your workspace properly can make all the difference in your productivity and comfort.
Bring your essentials
Think about what made your home office work for you and bring as much as you can to your office setup. Consider packing the following:
- Laptop and chargers, including any necessary adapters
- Headphones for focused work (especially in open office environments) and meetings with remote colleagues
- Notebooks, pens, and other essential office supplies
- A reusable water bottle and snacks to keep your energy up
- Personal hygiene items like hand sanitizer, tissues, and lip balm
Don’t forget ergonomics, comfort, and efficiency
The way you sit, type, and position your screen can impact your focus and long-term health. “The more you can ergonomically optimize your office workspace, the better,” Augustine says. “Any adjustments or equipment swaps you can make to promote proper posture, minimize discomfort, and increase productivity can help both your physical health and well-being.”
If your setup feels uncomfortable, consider small adjustments. “Position your monitor at eye level and about an arm's length away—this helps avoid neck and eye strain,” she says. “Keep the keyword and mouse at elbow height to minimize wrist strain and encourage a more natural posture.” Plus, bring a small footrest or a lumbar support cushion if your office allows it.
It might also be worth reaching out to your company for support. Many employers are willing to accommodate requests for ergonomic adjustments or additional equipment. For instance, Tomanelli asked for a standing desk converter. “I don’t stand for hours, but switching between sitting and standing keeps me from feeling locked in one position,” he says. “I also adjusted my chair, so my feet were flat on the floor and my arms rested naturally when typing.”
Make your space feel like home
The shift from working in your own space to an office can feel impersonal, but adding a few personal touches can help. If allowed, consider bringing a small plant for a touch of greenery, a special mug, or a framed photo of family, friends, or pets. Creating a workspace that feels functional and a little like your own can make the transition back to the office more enjoyable.
Prepare for the dress code
If you've been living in leggings, joggers, and slippers while working from home, figuring out what to wear to the office again can feel like a challenge.
Get clarity on office attire
Many companies have relaxed their dress codes post-pandemic, but expectations still vary. “If you’re unsure about what’s appropriate, find a colleague who has been at the company longer and ask how people dressed before remote work became the norm,” Augustine says. “You can also check your employee handbook or check in with HR to see if the dress code for the office has recently changed.”
Find office-friendly looks that work for you
Some offices still require business formal attire, while others have embraced a more casual approach. If there’s no clear dress code, aim for business casual—polished but comfortable.
“Think tailored pants with a bit of stretch, blouses made from breathable fabrics, and comfortable flats or low heels that are easy to walk in,” Augustine says. “You can also layer a well-fitted blazer over a comfortable knit top to instantly elevate your look without sacrificing comfort.”
Don’t underestimate the power of a good fabric! “Soft, wrinkle-resistant materials are lifesavers, especially if you have a long commute or a busy day full of meetings,” she says. “Opt for fabrics like jersey or structured knits that are comfortable yet professional-looking.”
Master face-to-face interactions
If you’ve been working remotely for a while, the thought of being around people all day might feel a little…exhausting. Reconnecting with coworkers, re-engaging in team dynamics, and adjusting to in-person interactions can take some getting used to.
Start small
Gradually easing back into in-person interactions can help you adjust more comfortably without feeling overwhelmed. “At first, I tried to jump back into big meetings, and it left me drained,” Tomanelli says. “I made a habit of starting small, like stopping by someone’s desk for a quick check-in or having a casual coffee with one person. It’s easier to ease back into those moments.”
Observe the office culture
The return to office means getting used to a different team dynamic. Some coworkers might be excited to be back, while others could be adjusting at their own pace.
Take time to observe how the office culture has shifted. How are people interacting? Are impromptu brainstorming sessions happening, or are team members checking in more frequently?
Pay attention to these shifts, and adapt your approach to make sure you’re participating in the most relevant conversations and contributing to the team’s evolving dynamic.
Be open to collaboration
Remote work often meant more independent tasks, but the office setting encourages more back-and-forth exchanges. Embrace the benefits of teamwork again by learning from your colleagues' ideas and perspectives and, of course, sharing your own thoughts.
Collaborative environments can spark innovation, improve problem-solving, and strengthen team bonds, making it easier to work towards shared goals and foster a sense of community.
Take breaks to recharge
While socializing is part of the office experience, it's OK to prioritize personal space. For example, you can let coworkers know when you're in a deep-work mode or establish time for breaks to recharge.
“Building mental health breaks into your day can make a significant difference,” Augustine says. “Try using mindfulness techniques or breathing exercises. You could also block off time on your calendar for quick walks outside or other self-care practices.”
Balance work and life
Adjusting to in-office work again doesn’t just mean shifting your daily routine—it also means redefining the balance between your job and personal life.
“Working from home blurred the lines between work and life, and returning to the office didn’t automatically fix that,” Tomanelli says. “Without the flexibility of remote work, you might find yourself struggling to fit in workouts, family time, or even just a moment to relax.”
The key? Intentional planning and setting clear boundaries.
Plan your week in advance
Whether it’s meal prepping, blocking off personal time, or scheduling workouts, a little preparation can help you stay on top of everything.
“I had to be intentional,” Tomanelli says. “I started putting personal things on my calendar—gym time, family dinner, even just a walk. If it was scheduled, I treated it like a meeting. And I stopped feeling guilty for logging off.”
Know when to step back
It’s easy to fall into the trap of overworking, especially when trying to prove your productivity in a more structured office setting. Remember to take breaks, set boundaries with your colleagues by letting them know when you're available and when you’re offline, and prioritize self-care. “In addition, find out if your company offers access to counseling or mental health or meditation apps that could give you an extra level of support,” Augustine says.
Recharge
Once you’re off the clock and leave the office, make a conscious effort to fully disconnect from work. Avoid work emails or messages after hours, and focus on activities that help you unwind. Whether it’s engaging in exercise, enjoying hobbies, or spending quality time with family and friends, prioritize your personal time.
A smooth return starts with preparation
Returning to the office after years of remote work is a big adjustment, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth and even rewarding transition. From rethinking your daily routine and commuting strategies to setting up your workspace and refreshing your work wardrobe, there’s a lot to consider. And let’s not forget the social side—reconnecting with colleagues in person after months (or years) of virtual meetings can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming.
Remember, the return to the office looks different for everyone. Whether you’re heading back full-time, part-time, or on a hybrid schedule, it’s important to tailor your preparations to your unique situation. Take the time to figure out what works best for you, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find your groove. Welcome back to the office—you’ve got this!