Introduction: What You’ll Learn
This simulation helps you navigate a return-to-work conversation with care, flexibility, and clarity. It’s about showing support, avoiding pressure, and reestablishing connection.
You’ll practice:
- Welcoming someone back without making it awkward
- Giving space for updates (or silence)
- Helping them reorient gently without pressure
- Rebuilding rhythm and trust
Step-by-Step Simulation
Scene 1: Warm Welcome
You (Manager):
"Hey, it’s really good to see you again — welcome back. How are you feeling about being back this week?"
Teammate (Casey):
"Thanks. It’s a bit surreal, honestly. Still finding my footing."
You:
"Totally fair. It’s okay to take your time — we’re glad to have you back, and we can take it at whatever pace feels right for you this week."
Scene 2: Rebuilding Context Gently
You:
"Would it be helpful if I gave you a quick rundown of what’s changed since you’ve been out — or would you rather just dive in and ask as things come up?"
Casey:
"A quick overview would help — I don’t want to feel behind."
You:
"Got it. I’ll walk you through the key stuff today, and we can fill in more over the next week. No need to take it all in at once — just ask questions as they come up. Also — if anything feels confusing or different than you expected, just flag it."
Scene 3: Setting the Tone and Pace
You:
"Let’s talk about what this first week or two could look like. Are you feeling ready to jump into project work, or would it help to focus more on catching up and getting back into rhythm first?"
Casey:
"I think easing in makes sense. I’d rather get my bearings before committing to anything too heavy."
You:
"Perfect — let’s do that. Let’s keep things pretty light this week — maybe some low-stakes tasks, a bit of shadowing, and we’ll check in more often. You can guide the pace, and I’ll back you up along the way."
Casey:
"Thanks, I really appreciate that."
You:
"Of course. You don’t have to power through — just be honest about how it’s feeling, and we’ll adjust as we go."
Mini Roleplay Challenges
Challenge 1:
Casey seems hesitant to open up.
- Best Response:
“Totally okay — no pressure to share more than you want. I’m here whenever you feel ready.”
Challenge 2:
Casey says they feel behind or out of the loop.
- Best Response:
“You’re not expected to be caught up overnight — we’ll take it step by step.”
Challenge 3:
Casey jumps into high-stakes work too fast.
- Best Response:
“I love the energy, but let’s check in on pacing too. Let’s make sure this feels manageable, not like a sprint.”
Optional Curveball Mode
- Casey asks for a different schedule or partial workload.
- They’re emotional or guarded about why they were out.
- They seem distracted or disconnected from the team.
Reflection Checklist
Welcome & Support
- Did I express genuine care and warmth?
- Did I invite honesty without prying?
Onboarding Mindset
- Did I offer context and flexibility?
- Did I let them guide the pace of reintegration?
Sustainability & Safety
- Did I watch for signs of stress or overreach?
- Did I make it clear this isn’t just a one-time check-in?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing them back into work without checking in
- Overloading them with updates or responsibilities
- Making them explain their leave or justify time away
- Acting too distant or overly careful, creating awkwardness