Reboarding: how to restart your career when you return to work? 

What is reboarding?

Reboarding is the process of bringing an employee back into the team after a break in their work. This can be due to various circumstances, such as maternity leave, a long illness, a break for studies or other events. It is worth understanding that returning to work after such a break can be a challenge for both the employee and the organization.

Reboarding is not only about formal procedures, but also about taking care of the employee’s well-being, engagement and motivation.

Preparing the employee for return

Onboarding an employee after a break in employment is a key stage of reboarding. Here are the steps to consider:

• Communication: Before an employee returns to the office, it is important to provide them with important information. This could include changes to the company, new procedures, team updates, or other important issues. 

• Updating knowledge: Make sure the employee has access to the latest materials and training. Sometimes changes in the organization can affect the employee’s duties, so it’s worth keeping the knowledge up to date.

• Integration: If new people have joined the team during the employee’s absence, provide an opportunity for them to get to know each other and integrate.  

• Physical preparation: Workplace organization, access to tools – all of this matters. The employee should feel comfortable and ready to perform their duties.

• Psychological support: An employee may feel stressed or uncertain after a break. Therefore, it is important for managers and the team to be open to conversations and support. 

• Motivation and engagement: Help the employee find their place in the team. Interest them in new projects, goals that can be achieved after returning.

Creating new goals and perspectives

When an employee returns to the office after a break, it’s worth considering new goals and perspectives. What to look for?

• Individual development plan: Help the employee identify goals they would like to achieve upon their return. Whether it’s a promotion, new skills, or other challenges? Create a plan together that is tailored to their needs.

• Developmental conversations: Regular meetings with your manager are essential. Discuss progress, goals, challenges, and any changes to your plans. This is also an opportunity to express your expectations and needs.

• New perspectives: A break from work can be an opportunity to look at your career from a different perspective. Are there new positions, projects, or areas that might interest the employee? Encourage them to explore. 

The value of reboarding at work cannot be overestimated. It is not just a matter of formality, but also of taking care of people, their development and involvement in the further development of the organization. Therefore, making efforts to ensure an effective reboarding process can bring tangible benefits to both employees and the company as a whole.

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