A well-planned return benefits everyone. When employers and employees talk early about coming back to work, it reduces uncertainty, supports confidence, and helps teams plan ahead.
Small actions — clear communication, flexibility, and realistic planning — can make a big difference to how supported an employee feels and how smoothly they reintegrate.
Why early conversations matter
Before an employee returns, take time to check in and align expectations.
Early conversations help to:
- Reduce anxiety about the return to work
- Clarify any changes to hours, role, or responsibilities
- Plan workloads and handovers more effectively
- Avoid last-minute surprises for either side
Remember that circumstances may have changed during leave. An employee might want to return earlier or later than planned, adjust their hours, or explore flexible working.
Supportive practices
- Start the conversation early
A simple, informal check-in a few weeks before the return date can help you understand what the employee needs and give them space to raise questions. - Keep communication open
Encourage updates if plans change. Early parenthood can be unpredictable, and flexibility helps build trust. - Use KIT and SPLIT days thoughtfully
Keeping in Touch (KIT) and Shared Parental Leave In Touch (SPLIT) days can be a useful way to discuss return plans, attend key meetings, or ease back into work gradually — but they should always be optional. - Plan a gentle re-entry
Where possible, consider a phased return, refresher training, or time to catch up on changes in the business. - Be clear about expectations
Agree priorities for the first few weeks back so the employee doesn’t feel pressured to “catch up” immediately.
Create a positive return experience
A supportive return to work isn’t about complex policies — it’s about clear communication, realistic planning, and understanding that both the employee and the business may have changed during the leave period.
Small, thoughtful steps can help rebuild confidence, strengthen retention, and support a successful transition back into the workplace.
