After a well-deserved summer break, returning to work can feel like a big shift. Some employees come back full of energy, while others feel overwhelmed. As an employer, how you welcome your team back can set the tone for the entire autumn. With just a few thoughtful actions, you can help ease the transition and create a positive start to the second half of the year.
Here are five of our best tips to give your employees a warm and supportive welcome back:
- Start with a soft landing
Instead of jumping straight into full calendars and deadlines, try to ease your team back in. Avoid scheduling heavy meetings or setting tight deadlines during the first week. Give people room to catch up and re-establish routines. A “soft landing” helps reduce stress and allows for a more sustainable return to work. - Host a relaxed welcome-back gathering
Organise a casual breakfast or lunch during the first week back. It doesn’t need to be fancy, just an opportunity for people to share stories from their holidays and re-connect socially. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way in rebuilding team spirit and reminding everyone why they enjoy working together. - Communicate clearly and positively
Use this time to share updates about what’s been happening while people were away and what’s coming up this autumn. A short welcome-back email or team meeting can help align expectations and build excitement for the months ahead. Keep the tone positive and focused, and make sure to leave space for questions or input. - Acknowledge the transition
Going from holiday mode to work mode can be tough. Acknowledge that it’s normal to feel a bit off during the first few days back, and encourage your team to take small steps to ease in. Let them know that they are not expected to be 100% productive right away. Showing understanding creates psychological safety and builds trust. - Reignite motivation with purpose
The return after summer is a great moment to focus on purpose and goals. Remind your employees why their work matters and what impact they’re making. If possible, involve them in shaping the priorities for the upcoming period. Feeling heard and involved increases motivation and helps everyone move forward with clarity.
Make the return to work something to look forward to
With just a bit of planning and a little extra effort, the post-holiday return can be more than a “back to reality” moment. It can be something to look forward to, and this happens by creating space for connection, clarity, and motivation, you’re setting the stage for a productive and engaging autumn.
After all, welcoming your employees back with intention shows that you value both their well-being and their contribution.