With the exception of recent on-site interviews, I haven't set foot in an office for work in about 5 years. Around mid-2013 I got my first full-time remote job and then have been able to secure other jobs and gigs that also let me work remote.<p>This has been fine for a while, but with my shift in job and career priorities I realize I have to go back to working at an office sooner or later. How do you adjust to that after having not been talking in person with your co-workers for so long?<p>When I work remotely I mostly chat online, via Slack or Hangouts. I engage in phone conversations maybe twice a month at the most. (that's usually with most people too, I'm not a big phone talker)<p>Outside of work related stuff, I do not go out with friends much, as for me it's usually a monthly affair. I also just talk to my siblings and parents about once a week too.
I'm currently 50 / 50. Here's what I've had to do to get work done in office :<p>* Headphones when I need to focus. Even a random noise app is good enough.<p>* Be patient with those who interrupt unless you have a deadline. They don't know that you're still adjusting.<p>* Go for coffee / walks with your co-workers. Get to know them and they'll get to know you (and your preferences of working through slack/hangouts)<p>* Plan for a slight drop in productivity and slight increase in communication
A good pair of headphones can help a bit. If you’re not used to working with headphones, it might be worth trying that out in advance.<p>What has changed that means you think you need to go back to an office?