Recently a client of mine returned to a full-time job after a year of unemployment. He shared that he was surprised at how challenging he found being in the office, in spite of having a long and successful career prior to his unwanted sabbatical. The phrases “culture shock” and “jet lag” seemed apt after having been free to pursue his own schedule and having been relatively socially isolated for a long time. His first few days on the job were admittedly a bit rough, compounded by his realization that he might not have been making the best first impression as a result.

The old standard advice for job seekers of maintaining a schedule, to which I frequently add the importance of  getting out with people as much as possible is not only good for your mental health, but it improves your job search prowess and facilitates a smooth transition once you get back to work.

For people who have taken an extended period of time out of the working world, such as those who have cared for their young, old, or ill family members, I frequently suggest easing back into the working world with a part-time arrangement. After a significant period in a relatively low-key home environment, most people find returning to the political nuances, fluorescent lights, ringing phones, and hectic pace of a busy corporate environment a real culture shock that makes them acutely unhappy.

Other ways to minimize corporate culture shock include taking on a part-time or volunteer job that gets you out with people on a regular basis.

If nothing else, anticipate a little jet lag and culture shock – and treat yourself kindly as you get back into the swing of things.