How to Manage the First Day Back in the Office (Hint: No Parties, but Lots of Flexibility)

How to Manage the First Day Back in the Office (Hint: No Parties, but Lots of Flexibility)

Many businesses plan to officially reopen their workplaces by the summer. And with so many colleagues meeting in person for the first time in over a year, things are bound to be a little awkward. 

"Initially, it was kind of eerie; it was kind of weird," says Wilbur You, founder and CEO of marketing agency Youtech, a four-time Inc. 5000 honoree that reopened its Scottsdale, Arizona, office last summer and its Naperville, Illinois, headquarters this January. "We've never been in a situation like this before."

Inc. asked CEOs of fast-growing businesses and workplace experts for their thoughts on the best way to execute a safe and equitable return to the office. While each company's strategy looks different, business owners tend to agree that for now, leaders should listen to employees and stay flexible. Here's their advice.