{"id":3858,"date":"2022-06-17T13:03:07","date_gmt":"2022-06-17T03:03:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/social-rust-in-the-workplace\/"},"modified":"2025-07-10T05:18:02","modified_gmt":"2025-07-10T05:18:02","slug":"social-rust-in-the-workplace","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/social-rust-in-the-workplace\/","title":{"rendered":"What is social rust and how to tackle it in the workplace"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull blog-template-header has-neutral-100-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--16)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div style=\"--bb--crumb-gap:.4em;\" class=\"blog-template-breadcrumb wp-block-employmentherocom2025-breadcrumb-block\"><nav role=\"navigation\" 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5.77648C6.15544 6.50283 5.83739 7.40411 5.83355 8.33398C5.83355 9.43905 6.27253 10.4989 7.05394 11.2803C7.83534 12.0617 8.89514 12.5007 10.0002 12.5007C11.1053 12.5007 12.1651 12.0617 12.9465 11.2803C13.7279 10.4989 14.1669 9.43905 14.1669 8.33398C14.1629 7.40674 13.8468 6.50785 13.2694 5.78232C15.2033 6.78886 16.8752 8.23337 18.1519 10.0007C17.201 11.3015 14.1277 15.0007 10.0002 15.0007Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"\/> <\/g> <defs> <clipPath id=\"clip0_5893_17419\"> <rect width=\"20\" height=\"20\" fill=\"white\"\/> <\/clipPath> <\/defs> <\/svg><\/span>Blog<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul style=\"display: flex; gap: var(--wp--preset--spacing--2); padding-left: 0; flex-wrap: wrap;\"><li style=\"background-color: #e8e7e8;padding: var(--wp--preset--spacing--0-5) var(--wp--preset--spacing--3);border-radius: var(--wp--preset--spacing--8);margin: 0;display: inline-flex;align-self: center;\">\n                <span class=\"has-sm-font-size\" >\n                    <a 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break, going back to work can feel daunting. Learn what social rust is and how you can help your team ease back into the office.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-template-meta-row is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-query wp-block-hosts-query has-global-padding is-content-justification-left is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-query-is-layout-1 wp-block-query-is-layout-constrained\"><ul data-wp-interactive=\"eh-hosts\" class=\"wp-block-post-template is-layout-flow wp-container-core-post-template-is-layout-1 wp-block-post-template-is-layout-flow\"><li data-host-index=\"0\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.openDetail\" class=\"wp-block-post post-4837 hosts type-hosts status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><figure style=\"width:52px;height:52px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"120\" height=\"120\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-120x120.jpg\" class=\"attachment-host_thumbnail size-host_thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Carissa Ng\" style=\"border-radius:60px;height:52px;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-120x120.jpg 120w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-240x240.jpg 240w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-54x54.jpg 54w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-108x108.jpg 108w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-685x683.jpg 685w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-390x390.jpg 390w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-216x216.jpg 216w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-432x432.jpg 432w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-112x112.jpg 112w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-224x224.jpg 224w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-142x142.jpg 142w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063-284x284.jpg 284w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/1530256332063.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 120px) 100vw, 120px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-sm-font-size is-vertical is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-6 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><h6 style=\"line-height:1.3; border-right-width:1px;border-right-color:var(--wp--preset--color--black); padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--2);\" class=\"has-text-align-center has-link-color wp-elements-1e20e747939e3458765ab321928f59b7 wp-block-post-title has-text-color has-violet-500-color has-sm-font-size\">Carissa Ng<\/h6><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-sm-font-size\" style=\"border-left-style:none;border-left-width:0px;padding-left:0\">Published<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-date has-sm-font-size\"><time datetime=\"2022-06-17T13:03:07+00:00\">Jun 17, 2022<\/time><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-sm-font-size\" style=\"border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--neutral-700);border-left-width:1px;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--2)\">Updated<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-date__modified-date wp-block-post-date has-sm-font-size\"><time datetime=\"2025-07-10T05:18:02+00:00\">Jul 10, 2025<\/time><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-sm-font-size\" style=\"border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--neutral-700);border-left-width:1px;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--2)\">17 mins read<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull blog-image-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized blog-template-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/06\/EmploymentHero_26-05-202112459.jpg\" alt=\"Image\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:864px;height:561px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:66px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:30%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group sticky-side-panel is-vertical is-content-justification-stretch is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-12 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex wp-container-2 is-position-sticky\">\n<p class=\"has-lg-font-size\" style=\"border-bottom-color:var(--wp--preset--color--neutral-200);border-bottom-width:0.1rem;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--4);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--4)\"><strong>Contents<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"content-single-table-content\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:70%\" id=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group content_single content_single--blog content-single-content-wysiwyg wysiwyg content-wrapper has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--4)\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-social-rust-and-how-can-you-help-your-team-shake-it-off\">What is &#8216;social rust&#8217; and how can you help your team shake it off?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With the easing of restrictions after the pandemic, many companies are getting their staff to return to work in the office more regularly \u2014 but returning to the office isn\u2019t as easy as it seems, after spending months or years in isolation with limited social interactions. In fact, it can be overwhelming. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many people have started new jobs during the pandemic and worked from home for the entire duration of their time with the company, missing out on opportunities to meet their team members face-to-face. Now that working in the office is gradually normalised again, it brings about new challenges like social rust. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"781\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/06\/image8.png\" alt=\"employees working in an office\" class=\"wp-image-3854\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image8.png 1170w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image8-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image8-1024x684.png 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image8-768x513.png 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image8-440x294.png 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Unsurprisingly, most employees aren\u2019t looking forward to reinstating the pre-pandemic normal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Australia, a study by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bcg.com\/capabilities\/people-organization\/personalisation-for-your-people\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Boston Consulting Group<\/a> found that 60% of employees wanted to continue working remotely for at least two or three days a week. The same goes for New Zealand, where <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nzherald.co.nz\/nz\/back-to-the-office-the-great-hybrid-return-to-work\/R6V3XS2WTSWZT5NUME2JCOU4QE\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">most businesses are adopting a hybrid model <\/a>\u2014 that\u2019s where work is done from home while you go to the office to meet and socialise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the UK, workers are slower to return to the office, with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ato.gov.au\/businesses-and-organisations\/super-for-employers\/setting-up-super-for-your-business\/offer-employees-a-choice-of-super-fund\/stapled-super-funds-for-employers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">84% of employees wanting to continue a hybrid working model<\/a>. The government is actively pushing for employees to return to the office nonetheless, but has faced a lot of criticism. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Singapore, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/singapore\/jobs\/spore-workers-want-bosses-to-listen-to-their-flexi-work-needs-ips-survey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">workers would like employers to listen<\/a>, communicate and adjust new work arrangements to suit their preferences. Those who prioritise flexibility are more inclined to look for a new job, if their current workplace insists on having staff return to the office. This is a sentiment echoed in Malaysia as well, according to a study by Ernst and Young. Almost 50% of respondents said they would quit their jobs if not provided post-pandemic flexibility, and 90% want flexibility in where and when they work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With such an emphasis on the office being a space for social situations and conversations, it\u2019s only natural for many employees to feel awkward at first with the new normal. Some might be more comfortable to continue wearing their masks, while others might be eager to resume casual hugs and shaking hands. Social rust is present at different levels for everyone, and it\u2019s important to keep that in mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-exactly-is-social-rust\">What exactly is social rust?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"496\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/Social-Rust-meme.png\" alt=\"Meme of two women talking with the caption: \u201cMe trying to remember how to have a conversation after being in isolation for a year.\u201d\" class=\"wp-image-25100\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/Social-Rust-meme.png 600w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/Social-Rust-meme-300x248.png 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/Social-Rust-meme-440x364.png 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image via @iamthirtyaf<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This meme sums it up in a nutshell. Can you relate? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Social rust essentially refers to social skills turning rusty. An unsurprising turn of events after prolonged periods of lockdowns, lack of a social life, and staying indoors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Activities that used to be normal everyday occurrences, such as attending social gatherings and events, or sharing a meal with a group of colleagues, may now feel awkward, anxiety-inducing and overwhelming. While working in the office isn\u2019t new for most people, different individuals need time to transition at their own pace, especially those who have joined a business during the pandemic. Relationships need time to grow, and interacting or building rapport with new colleagues can be daunting after not having much in-person interactions the past few years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are handshakes still a thing? Or fist bumps? It\u2019s hard to gauge the comfort level or boundaries of others with social rituals like such. A new social etiquette has risen in the past year: having to ask first before going for it. Some individuals might be comfortable with resuming such interactions, while others prefer to maintain a comfortable distance out of hygiene concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-effects-of-social-rust-and-how-it-can-impact-productivity\">The effects of social rust and how it can impact productivity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image6-1024x683.png\" alt=\"woman using computer with hands on her face\" class=\"wp-image-25102\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image6-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image6-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image6-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image6-440x293.png 440w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image6.png 1125w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"return-to-work-anxiety\">Return-to-work anxiety<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Social rust manifests in different ways, but mainly through return-to-work anxiety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many employees are feeling unsettled after the past year of remote work, which is natural. The thought of suddenly seeing everyone in person again can feel overwhelming. On the flip side, some employees might be eager and excited to go back to life again in the office, because they find that it helps their productivity, while others might be the complete reverse \u2014 it all depends on the individual. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Transitions naturally spike anxiety, as familiar situations tend to be safer and predictable \u2014 our homes have become a comfort zone for us to let our guard down while working, and dictate the optimum environment for us to work in. We\u2019ve set up our home offices the way we like it, we get to complete errands and chores around the house throughout the day, and we get to join meetings and end meetings immediately as they start and end. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nevertheless, when employees are reluctant to return to the office, it impacts productivity heavily, as their focus is placed on social situations rather than the output of work. When your employee is stressed, they\u2019re constantly distracted and not able to channel their full attention and capacity to getting tasks done. Deadlines will be missed, and team members will suffer when there\u2019s unfinished workloads to be done. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"memory-and-verbal-recall\">Memory and verbal recall<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Prolonged isolation from social distancing and lockdowns affects <a href=\"https:\/\/www.the-scientist.com\/features\/how-social-isolation-affects-the-brain-67701\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">memory and verbal recall<\/a>, which is why you might find yourself struggling with finding the right words to express your intentions. This no doubt hampers the effectiveness of communication in the workplace, and more patience is needed to coax one\u2019s intended message out accurately. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employee wellbeing goes hand-in-hand with workplace productivity, so you\u2019ll want your employees at their best. It\u2019s important to ensure that they are happy and healthy at work if you want your business to be thriving and growing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-identify-social-rust-amongst-your-teamemployees\">How to identify social rust amongst your team\/employees<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1171\" height=\"781\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/06\/image7.png\" alt=\"empty chair with laptop on table\" class=\"wp-image-3851\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image7.png 1171w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image7-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image7-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image7-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image7-440x293.png 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1171px) 100vw, 1171px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"employee-absenteeism\">Employee absenteeism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/employee-absenteeism\/\">Employee absenteeism<\/a> is one of the biggest signs of social rust. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The pandemic has changed many people who were once extroverts to becoming introverts. It\u2019s important to understand the various personalities in your team and find out where and how they work best. People struggle with social rust differently, and some employees might choose to avoid the transition back to the office environment as much as they can, particularly introverts who have grown comfortable working from home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some employees might choose to opt out of social team gatherings, take sick leave more often, or are less likely to participate in conversations, share their opinions on projects, or collaborate with colleagues. So if you notice that an employee who\u2019s starting to become more disengaged and constantly absent \u2014 that\u2019s a clear sign to check in with their well-being and extend more empathy, before they decide to leave the company for good.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"physical-and-emotional-fatigue\">Physical and emotional fatigue<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s be real \u2014 not everyone enjoys the commute to the office, along with the preparation time needed that goes along with it. Having to wake up earlier than usual to get dressed, with coffee and breakfast all done before heading out takes effort. Adjusting back to pre-pandemic work life can take a toll on our bodies both physically and mentally, as we struggle to adapt to a whole new routine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On top of that, we all have to put our best foot forward in the office \u2014 but social interactions can be rewarding to some and a dread to others. Extroverts thrive on having conversations with colleagues, whilst introverts need time to recharge after a whole day of interacting at work. Add social rust to the mix and that all amalgamates into extreme fatigue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you spot your employees gradually pulling away, drawing clear boundaries at the office, being more irritable, having mood swings, or causing a decrease in quality of work produced, it\u2019s probably because they are headed straight towards <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/signs-that-you-are-suffering-burnout\/\">burnout<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-help-your-team-shake-off-the-rust-and-get-back-into-working-mode\">How to help your team shake off the rust and get back into working mode<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/CewgCj6hcoY\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"835\" height=\"790\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/06\/image5.png\" alt=\"Comic image from New Yorker Mag\" class=\"wp-image-3850\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image5.png 835w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image5-300x284.png 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image5-768x727.png 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image5-412x390.png 412w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 835px) 100vw, 835px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image via @newyorkermag<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We all struggle and cope with social rust in different ways. Some, more than others \u2014 so it\u2019s important to first acknowledge it and be more empathetic towards each individual as they transition back to working from the office. Here are some ways you can help your teams overcome social rust.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"create-a-comfortable-working-environment\">Create a comfortable working environment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by creating a conducive environment for employees to work in as they adjust to their desks and new routines. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Companies like New Zealand\u2019s biggest litigation firm, MC, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stuff.co.nz\/life-style\/homed\/latest\/127714389\/lifesized-terrarium-in-auckland-office-is-best-in-world\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">have taken their office space to a whole new level<\/a> \u2014 with lush landscaping, to create a rejuvenating and calming environment for their employees. That\u2019s not all in fact, they\u2019ve also got a reflection room where people can mediate, a wild botanical-themed cafe\/kitchen, staff were given the latest iPhones to use as their IDs, and they get to enjoy new furniture and no <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/what-is-hot-desking\/\">hot-desking<\/a> \u2014 everyone has their own space with full-length lockers to boot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image3-1-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Image of New Zealand's litigation firm, MC office\" class=\"wp-image-3849\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image3-1-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image3-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image3-1-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image3-1-440x247.png 440w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image3-1.png 1240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image via Stuff\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, not every organisation can afford that luxury, but the key thing to recognise is that offices now need to compete with homes and show why they are better. The call to bring employees back to the office to work needs to be justified especially with the potential of some disgruntled employees, so it is worth the effort of going through pain points such as spending money on barista-made coffee, lunch, and transport alongside squeezing with rush hour crowds and long commutes. When employees are comfortable and relaxed in the workplace, they are more likely to be productive at work and forge strong social connections. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if nothing can be changed about the physical space, attitudes in the workplace can be improved on. Managers need to lead by example in creating a happy workplace, it\u2019s all about making every employee feel recognised and welcome. Even just saying a regular friendly greeting every morning can brighten up someone\u2019s day. Compliments and encouragements go a long way. Be sensitive to everyone\u2019s needs and respect their boundaries. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need some more tips on <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/foster-happiness-in-the-workplace\/\">creating a happy workplace<\/a> \u2014 we\u2019re happy to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"start-small-and-make-it-optional\">Start small and make it optional<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Our advice? You don\u2019t want to be having a big social gathering right at the start, especially when everyone is slowly easing out of their own bubbles. It can be too much. Rather, start small by organising team gatherings in groups of less than 10, so new and old employees alike can get to know each other better in an informal, casual setting without being overwhelmed by the thought of a huge event. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Doing something simple such as having a regular team lunch every week or on a fortnightly basis can help to keep social interactions going as everyone re-trains their \u2018social muscles\u2019. You\u2019ll also want to be clear in communicating that these activities are entirely optional, although each employee\u2019s presence will be greatly appreciated. It provides the flexibility and opportunity for employees to decide for themselves whether or not they feel ready to socialise and interact with others, or if they prefer to exclude themselves for the time being until they are ready to join in. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Doing so allows them to understand that their well-being and priorities are being respected, and in turn, they will be able to bring their best selves to work, knowing that they are fully supported to return at their own pace within the company. Give them space and the power to decide when that is. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"prioritise-workplace-wellness\">Prioritise workplace wellness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Workplace wellness is more important than ever before, with the pandemic creating all kinds of mental health issues and challenges. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want your employees to find your organisation a great place to work, supporting wellness in the workplace is vital. If you need some inspiration on designing a workplace wellness program for your employees, <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/workplace-wellness-programs-companies\/\">find out what the top players are doing<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An employee assistance program (EAP) would be incredibly helpful for employees who are struggling to navigate through these uncertain times. It provides your employees with access to professional counselling and support services when they need it most, and also provides assistance to those struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, in a confidential environment with a qualified professional. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employees may feel ashamed or embarrassed to discuss their current struggle with social rust and dealing with changing boundaries in the workplace \u2014 having an EAP they can turn to gives them a private channel to share their concerns safely, and helps them discover tips in dealing with social rust. Maintaining self care is important, and taking that first step in utilising EAP resources will help them regain confidence in their social skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"check-in-with-your-employees-well-being-through-regular-11s\">Check in with your employee\u2019s well-being through regular 1:1s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/06\/image2.jpg\" alt=\"two employees having a casual chat\" class=\"wp-image-3848\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image2.jpg 1999w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image2-440x293.jpg 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/what-are-1-1s\/\">Implementing 1:1s<\/a> can be the difference between building a good team and a great team \u2014 which is why we can\u2019t emphasise enough on how important it is to have it in your workplace. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from the <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/what-are-1-1s\/\">impactful benefits of having 1:1s,<\/a> they also serve as a great way to check in with your employee\u2019s mental health and see how well they are adjusting back to working from the office. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Is there anything worrying them? Can you do anything to help to assuage those concerns? How can you better support them at work? These 1:1 sessions provide the perfect opportunity for you to have a regular cadence of <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/resources\/how-to-implement-effective-11s\/\">open, honest communication with them<\/a>, and also allows them to flag any difficulties they may have readjusting back to work in the office. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s also a good chance to clarify your expectations \u2014 when employees have a clear understanding of what\u2019s expected of them, it helps to reduce the anxiety and pressure to perform, both at work and socially.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"utilise-employee-happiness-surveys\">Utilise employee happiness surveys<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best ways to keep a pulse on your employees\u2019 happiness is via an <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/employee-happiness-survey\/\">employee happiness survey<\/a>. If you\u2019re truly keen to hear your employees\u2019 frank responses on how they are doing or feeling, then be sure to ask the right questions so you can identify current gaps in the business. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s your chance to take action and improve the workplace based on their feedback. Tailor your survey questions to address the issue of social rust specifically, so you can get a better gauge of their thoughts and reactions, and address them before it\u2019s too late. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>91爆料\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/solutions\/employee-engagement-software\/\">built-in Happiness Survey feature<\/a> is a place where employees can provide anonymous feedback This simple set up makes it easy for employers to gather information on how employees are finding their current work and environment. It\u2019s quick and fuss-free, and allows employees to reflect on their situation at the moment before rating their happiness score out of 10. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It also enables leaders and HR managers to ask for more information from employees who submit low happiness scores \u2014 all while retaining anonymity so anything shared is strictly confidential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1108\" height=\"804\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/06\/image4.png\" alt=\"91爆料's happiness survey\" class=\"wp-image-3847\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image4.png 1108w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image4-300x218.png 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image4-1024x743.png 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image4-768x557.png 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/06\/image4-440x319.png 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1108px) 100vw, 1108px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"dont-forget-redeveloping-social-skills-takes-time-and-practice\">Don\u2019t forget redeveloping social skills takes time and practice<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, we all need to recognise that everyone is readjusting back to office life at different paces, and developing our social skills again to a level we are personally comfortable with takes time. Leverage on <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/communication-in-the-workplace\/\">effective communication techniques in the workplace<\/a> to deal with social rust, so it strengthens relationships within teams and empowers your employees to be performing at their best. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Having the right <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/products\/hr-software\/\">HR software<\/a> also helps you check in with your employees much more easily, from in-built happiness surveys to 1:1 tools for guiding structured meetings between managers and employees, and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your role as a leader is to make this transition as painless as possible. So with kindness, patience, and helpful tips we\u2019ve shared, you\u2019re more than equipped to help your team shake off social rust. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-2 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\" data-trigger-modal=\"request-a-demo-modal\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\">Learn more<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-content-justification-space-between is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-14 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related Resources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-link-arrow is-style-link-arrow--3\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-btn-brand-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"\/resources\/?topic%5B0%5D%5B0%5D=Product\">View all<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-query blog-3-col-query-loop is-layout-flow wp-block-query-is-layout-flow\"><ul class=\"columns-3 alignfull wp-block-post-template is-layout-grid wp-container-core-post-template-is-layout-2 wp-block-post-template-is-layout-grid\"><li class=\"wp-block-post post-27027 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-uncategorized resource-type-blog\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-neutral-100-border-color has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-17 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-width:1px;min-height:100%\"><figure style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;width:100%;height:100%; padding-bottom:0;padding-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-january-2026\/\" target=\"_self\"  style=\"height:100%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1152\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/02\/Product-Update-January-2026-thumbnail.webp\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Product Update: January 2026\" style=\"width:100%;height:100%;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/02\/Product-Update-January-2026-thumbnail.webp 1152w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/02\/Product-Update-January-2026-thumbnail-300x198.webp 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/02\/Product-Update-January-2026-thumbnail-1024x676.webp 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/02\/Product-Update-January-2026-thumbnail-768x507.webp 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/02\/Product-Update-January-2026-thumbnail-576x380.webp 576w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/02\/Product-Update-January-2026-thumbnail-440x290.webp 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-3-col-details wp-container-content-3 is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-16 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-15 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\" class=\"taxonomy-resource-type eh-resource-type wp-block-post-terms\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-post-terms-icon\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" alt=\"icon-blog\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/02\/ManagedHR-1-1.png\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/resources\/blog\/\" rel=\"tag\">Blogs<\/a><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-january-2026\/\" target=\"_self\" >Product Update: January 2026<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt has-text-color has-contrast-2-color has-small-font-size wp-container-content-2\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Welcome to the January 2026 product update from the 91爆料 team. We\u2019ve got lots to share around Custom Forms,&hellip; <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<a style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600;\" class=\"wp-elements-9dfcbcb7662772ecb2d671e8976a6c51 wp-block-read-more has-text-color has-violet-500-color\" href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-january-2026\/\" target=\"_self\">Read more<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">: Product Update: January 2026<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-january-2026\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"group-block-link\"><\/a>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-26921 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-uncategorized tag-2025-product-update resource-type-blog topic-product\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-neutral-100-border-color has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-20 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-width:1px;min-height:100%\"><figure style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;width:100%;height:100%; padding-bottom:0;padding-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-december-2025\/\" target=\"_self\"  style=\"height:100%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1152\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/01\/December-2025-Product-Update-Thumbnail.webp\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Product Update: December 2025\" style=\"width:100%;height:100%;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/01\/December-2025-Product-Update-Thumbnail.webp 1152w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/01\/December-2025-Product-Update-Thumbnail-300x198.webp 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/01\/December-2025-Product-Update-Thumbnail-1024x676.webp 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/01\/December-2025-Product-Update-Thumbnail-768x507.webp 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/01\/December-2025-Product-Update-Thumbnail-576x380.webp 576w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/01\/December-2025-Product-Update-Thumbnail-440x290.webp 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-3-col-details wp-container-content-6 is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-19 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-18 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\" class=\"taxonomy-resource-type eh-resource-type wp-block-post-terms\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-post-terms-icon\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" alt=\"icon-blog\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/02\/ManagedHR-1-1.png\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/resources\/blog\/\" rel=\"tag\">Blogs<\/a><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-december-2025\/\" target=\"_self\" >Product Update: December 2025<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt has-text-color has-contrast-2-color has-small-font-size wp-container-content-5\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Welcome to the December 2025 product update from the 91爆料 team. We\u2019ve got lots to share around Custom Forms,&hellip; <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<a style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600;\" class=\"wp-elements-9dfcbcb7662772ecb2d671e8976a6c51 wp-block-read-more has-text-color has-violet-500-color\" href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-december-2025\/\" target=\"_self\">Read more<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">: Product Update: December 2025<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-december-2025\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"group-block-link\"><\/a>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-26905 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-uncategorized tag-2025-product-update resource-type-blog topic-product\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-neutral-100-border-color has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-23 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-width:1px;min-height:100%\"><figure style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;width:100%;height:100%; padding-bottom:0;padding-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-november-2025\/\" target=\"_self\"  style=\"height:100%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1152\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/BlogDownloadable_Generic-optimized.webp\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Product Update: November 2025\" style=\"width:100%;height:100%;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/BlogDownloadable_Generic-optimized.webp 1152w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/BlogDownloadable_Generic-optimized-300x198.webp 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/BlogDownloadable_Generic-optimized-1024x676.webp 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/BlogDownloadable_Generic-optimized-768x507.webp 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/BlogDownloadable_Generic-optimized-576x380.webp 576w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/12\/BlogDownloadable_Generic-optimized-440x290.webp 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-3-col-details wp-container-content-9 is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-22 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-21 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\" class=\"taxonomy-resource-type eh-resource-type wp-block-post-terms\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-post-terms-icon\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" alt=\"icon-blog\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/02\/ManagedHR-1-1.png\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/resources\/blog\/\" rel=\"tag\">Blogs<\/a><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-november-2025\/\" target=\"_self\" >Product Update: November 2025<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt has-text-color has-contrast-2-color has-small-font-size wp-container-content-8\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Welcome to the November 2025 product update from the 91爆料 team. We\u2019ve got lots to share around Workflows, Rostering,&hellip; <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<a style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600;\" class=\"wp-elements-9dfcbcb7662772ecb2d671e8976a6c51 wp-block-read-more has-text-color has-violet-500-color\" href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-november-2025\/\" target=\"_self\">Read more<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">: Product Update: November 2025<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/my\/blog\/product-update-november-2025\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"group-block-link\"><\/a>\n<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn what social rust is and how you can help your team ease back into the office.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":23319,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"_lite_auth_enabled":false,"_lite_auth_trigger_method":"scroll","_lite_auth_scroll_percent":25,"_lite_auth_click_element_query":"","exclude_from_algolia":false,"reading_time":"10 min 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