12 Return To Work Questions For Employee Survey

According to findings from a Cisco study, 82% of employees in India expressed a desire to return to the office at least a few times per week.

Creating a smooth transition for employees returning to work after an extended absence is crucial for both their well-being and the overall success of the organization. A return-to-work survey serves as a valuable tool for gathering insights into employees' needs, concerns, and expectations as they rejoin the workforce. Here's why such a survey is important:

1. Understanding Employee Needs: Every individual's circumstances and experiences during their time away from work can vary widely. By collecting feedback through a survey, management gains valuable insights into the specific challenges employees may face upon returning, allowing them to tailor support and resources accordingly.
2. Identifying Potential Issues: The return to work survey can help identify any potential obstacles or concerns that might hinder a smooth transition back into the workplace. This could include issues related to health and safety protocols, childcare arrangements, transportation challenges, or even mental health considerations.
3. Enhancing Employee Engagement: Demonstrating a commitment to employee well-being by soliciting feedback and taking action based on survey responses can boost employee morale and engagement. It shows that management values their input and is dedicated to creating a supportive work environment.
4. Informing Decision-Making: The data collected from the return-to-work survey provides management with valuable information for making informed decisions about policies, procedures, and resources needed to facilitate a successful return-to-work process.

Also Read About Employee Pulse Surveys

When designing a return-to-work survey, consider including questions that cover various aspects of the return-to-work experience, such as:

1. Logistics: Ask about any logistical concerns or challenges employees anticipate, such as commuting arrangements, workspace adjustments, or scheduling preferences.
2. Health and Safety: Inquire about employees' comfort level with returning to the workplace amidst health and safety concerns. Include questions about their expectations regarding safety protocols, cleanliness standards, and access to personal protective equipment.
3. Work-Life Balance: Explore how employees anticipate balancing work responsibilities with personal or family commitments, especially if they've experienced significant changes during their time away from work.
4. Support Needs: Assess employees' needs for additional support or accommodations, such as flexible work arrangements, mental health resources, or assistance with caregiving responsibilities.

Flexibility And Total Well-Being For Corporate Wellness

In addition to conducting surveys, management can take several other steps to facilitate a smooth return to work process:

1. Clear Communication: Provide transparent and timely communication about return-to-work plans, expectations, and any changes in policies or procedures.
2. Flexible Work Arrangements: Offer flexibility in work hours or remote work options where feasible to accommodate employees' needs and preferences.
3. Training and Support: Provide training or refresher courses on new protocols, technologies, or procedures to help employees ease back into their roles effectively.
4. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Ensure access to resources such as counseling services, wellness programs, or financial assistance programs to support employees' overall well-being.
5. Peer Support Networks: Facilitate opportunities for employees to connect with peers who have similar experiences or challenges, allowing them to share insights, advice, and emotional support.

By combining insights gathered from return-to-work surveys with proactive support measures, management can create a welcoming and supportive environment that enables employees to transition back into the workplace successfully.

Return to Work Employee Survey (SAMPLE SURVEY)

Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey. Your feedback is valuable in helping us facilitate a smooth transition as you return to work. Please answer the following questions honestly and to the best of your ability.

1. Personal Information (Optional)

• Name: [Optional]
• Department/Team: [Optional]
• Role/Position: [Optional]

2. Logistics

a. How do you plan to commute to work?

• Personal vehicle
• Public transportation
• Carpooling
• Other (please specify): __________

b. Are there any logistical challenges you anticipate in returning to the workplace? If yes, please specify.

Health and Safety

a. On a scale of 1 to 5, how comfortable are you with returning to the workplace amidst health and safety concerns? (1 = Not at all comfortable, 5 = Very comfortable)

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5

b. What safety measures or protocols would you like to see in place to ensure a safe work environment?

• Mandatory mask-wearing
• Regular sanitization of workspaces
• Social distancing measures
• Other (please specify): __________

c. Do you have any specific health concerns or conditions that you believe management should be aware of? If yes, please provide details.

Work-Life Balance

a. How do you anticipate balancing work responsibilities with personal or family commitments?

• Flexible work hours
• Remote work options
• Adjusted workload
• Other (please specify): __________

b. Are there any work-life balance challenges you foresee upon returning to work? If yes, please explain.

Support Needs

a. Are there any specific accommodations or support you require to facilitate your return to work? (e.g., flexible work arrangements, additional training, etc.) If yes, please specify.

b. Do you anticipate needing any assistance with childcare arrangements or caregiving responsibilities upon returning to work? If yes, please provide details.

Overall Experience

a. How prepared do you feel for your return to work?

• Very prepared
• Somewhat prepared
• Neutral
• Somewhat unprepared
• Very unprepared

b. Would you like to share any additional feedback or suggestions regarding the return-to-work process?

Additional Questions (Only if you wish to add)

Communication and Information

a. How satisfied are you with the communication you have received regarding the return-to-work plans and procedures?

• Very satisfied
• Satisfied
• Neutral
• Dissatisfied
• Very dissatisfied

b. Is there any information or clarification you feel is lacking regarding the return-to-work process? If yes, please specify.

Training and Resources

a. Do you feel adequately trained and equipped to perform your job responsibilities upon returning to work?

• Yes, fully
• Yes, somewhat
• No, not really
• No, not at all

b. Are there any specific training or resources you believe would be helpful for you in transitioning back to work? If yes, please specify.

Mental Health and Well-being

a. How would you rate your current mental and emotional well-being in anticipation of returning to work?

• Excellent
• Good
• Fair
• Poor
• Very poor

b. Are there any mental health resources or support services you would like to see offered to employees as they return to work? If yes, please provide suggestions.

Feedback and Suggestions

a. Do you have any concerns, questions, or suggestions that you would like to share with management regarding the return-to-work process?

b. How do you feel management could further support employees in their transition back to the workplace?

Conclusion

Returning to work after an extended absence can be both exciting and challenging for employees. Recognizing the importance of facilitating a smooth transition, organizations can utilize return-to-work surveys as a valuable tool for understanding employees' needs, concerns, and expectations. By gathering insights through these surveys, management gains valuable information to tailor support and resources, ultimately fostering a positive and supportive work environment.