Sadly, based on the data readily available, it seems that – overall – we are seeing more of a resurgence of the original infection curve than the beginning of a new outbreak. What does this mean to the workplace environment and, more personally, what does this mean to our workday experience as we move forward?

How do we maintain our team spirit? As important, how do we continue to grow a culture of camaraderie when our co-workers have morphed into a two dimensional image? And, lastly, how do we incorporate the “newbies” into our culture?

This summer is an unusual time for the fashion industry, to say the very least. Gone are the days where extensive retail shopping was a weekend activity. Dressing up for all types of get-togethers, including the office, feels like a distant memory.

Way back in March when things were beginning to lock and shut down, we viewed this as merely a speed bump in our lives. Surely, we thought, this would only be temporary. In a few weeks things would go back to normal. It would become the subject of water cooler talk.

Fast forward to 2020. Throw in a heavy dose of technology and leaven with a pandemic and we find ourselves wondering – does Robert Owen’s mantra still apply?

Then 234 years later came an unseen challenge to those liberties called COVID-19, and a nation - no, an entire world - turned upside down.

Some transitions will be gradual, others more accelerated. Many offices will still incorporate a significant amount of work-from-home hours. Whatever you are facing, do so with a smile. Remember that you used to enjoy where you work. (Of course, if you now find out your current office situation is not what you really want – get to work on your personal career plan). Oh, and pack a lunch.

With Father's Day next Sunday, we're thinking about all of the things our fathers and father-like figures have done for us - including helping to shape the people that we are today both in and outside of the workplace.

The term “a new normal” is bandied about quite a bit nowadays. While it can make for some clever memes its actual meaning remains in flux. We are all adapting to new situations when it comes to our work environment. Not the least of which is in how we communicate with each other.

Yes, we are resilient and, yes, this too shall pass. However, it will take effort and endurance. If you are, or know, someone who is looking to get back into the game, here are a few resources you can utilize in your quest. There are the obvious candidates like Monster, Indeed, Career Builder and LinkedIn. However, there are many others, like these.