How to combat resistance to working in the office

Not a week goes by where a company isn't announcing new return to office plans. Whether you are in favor of it or not, as a manager, if your company is enforcing it, it is part of your job to get your team onboard.  But I get that is easier said than done ;) In this episode, I share a pitfall to avoid when talking about return to office and how to get your teams excited about the potential of it. A peek into the episode... 00:00 Managers struggle with empathy when they dislike returning to the office, yet must support company policy, which can hinder team accountability. 04:46 Optimize in-person work by planning meetings, utilizing resources, and offering flexible hours to ease commutes. 06:09 Align policies and communication among teams to reduce transition stress and enhance collaboration, accommodating necessary exceptions. 09:55 Eager to assist, stay authentic, and facilitate team transitions. -- WORK WITH LIA: How many times have you thought "I wish this whole managing people thing was a little easier" or better yet - "tell me what to do to be a better manager and I'll do it"? I've got you covered ;) My new book, The New Manager Playbook, your comprehensive guide to managing with confidence and ease is now available! Grab your copy today! https://www.liagarvin.com/newmanagerplaybook/ Want some support for yourself or your team, let's chat! Schedule a call here: calendly.com/liagarvin/scaleup-strategy CONNECT WITH LIA: Website: https://www.liagarvin.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liagarvin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lia.garvin/ Music by: https://www.instagram.com/isaacy8s/ Download my FREE guide to making hard conversations with your team easier at liagarvin.com/convo Looking for support for yourself of your team? I've got you covered. Explore manager training, leaders keynotes & offsites, and 1:1 advisory, or my 90-Day-COO program for business owners who want simple systems that actually work. I transform teams from cost centers to profit centers with practical tools and research-backed strategies that make managing EASIER. Get all the details at: www.liagarvin.com Contact: liagarvin.com/contact Email: hello@liagarvin.com Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lia.garvin Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lia.Garvin -- © 2026 Lia Garvin / Managing Made Simple