It can be useful to have some sample letters you can use to communicate with your employer as you get ready to go back to work after a maternity leave. Being successful at work requires open communication with employers, and letters work well because they provide a tangible record of your correspondences regarding your maternity leave. One of the downloadable examples from the list below might be ideal for your circumstance.
How to prepare to return to work
You can prepare for your return to work by following the steps listed below:
1. Request a phased return
Consider a phased return if you are returning to work after being ill and are still dealing with symptoms so that you can gradually resume your regular responsibilities. Employees can typically choose to start working part-time during phased returns, either through shortened workdays or on specific days of the week, allowing them to resume work at their own pace.
A phased return could also restrict the kinds of tasks you carry out at work until you are well enough to resume all of your responsibilities, depending on the specifics of your recovery and job. Together with your boss and doctor, discuss your requirements and schedule to come up with a strategy that will work for both you and the business.
2. Stay in contact while youre away
Try to stay in touch with your coworkers and supervisor during your time off to get regular updates on operations, deadlines, and other changes to ensure a smooth transition back to work. If you can’t stay in touch, plan a meeting with your boss right before you leave or as soon as you get back to catch up on any updates and changes you might have missed.
Maintaining good working relationships with your team can also help you get support while you’re away.
3. Ask for help
If you have queries or worries about your workload, ask for assistance from coworkers, your HR department, and/or your supervisor. Returning to work after an extended leave of absence requires time to adjust.
Why is it important to write a return-to-work letter?
After a lengthy leave of absence, employers frequently demand a return-to-work letter for the following reasons:
You can use a return-to-work letter to inform your employer of these vital information when you return to work after an extended leave so they can plan their workflow accordingly, convey any significant updates or changes that happened while you were away, and offer any necessary accommodations for your return.
How to write a return-to-work letter
To write a letter expressing your desire to return to your previous position, follow these steps:
1. Address the letter to the correct person
You might need to address your return to work letter to a supervisor or a human resources representative depending on the policies and organizational structure of your company. Regardless of their position within the organization, this individual is most likely responsible for organizing your leave of absence.
2. Thank them for authorizing your work leave
Like most business letters, a return to work letter should begin by thanking the recipient for their approval of your leave. Talk about how your absence helped you heal and regain your health, take care of a loved one, or otherwise adjust to changes at home.
3. Attach the proper documentation
Depending on your justification for being away and your company’s policies, the appropriate documentation is required. This documentation could be a specific return-to-work intent form that your employer mandates employees complete, or it could be paperwork that you were asked to complete when you first took your leave.
A doctor’s release letter stating that you are healthy and able to perform your job duties may also be required by your employer if you are returning to work after being ill or having surgery. If you do include a doctor’s release letter, make sure it details your absence’s cause and any restrictions you’ll need to follow when you return to work.
4. Mention how you plan to get reacclimated
Mention specific measures you intend to take to ensure a smooth transition back to work in your return-to-work letter, as well as your prior performance standards. For instance, you could mention that you spoke with your secretary and that they sent meeting notes your way to help you catch up.
5. Close the letter with gratitude
To further show your professionalism and appreciation, thank your employer, human resources representative, or supervisor for their cooperation and flexibility throughout your absence.
Return-to-work letter template
Here is a sample return-to-work letter that you can use as a model:
Dear [Name of supervisor or HR representative],
Thank you for being so understanding during this trying time. I’m writing to let you know that as of [date], I will be able to return to work after [a period of illness or caregiving].
As you are already aware, I had to take some time off work in order to [explain the reason for your leave of absence, such as to improve your health or take care of a loved one] I am prepared to go back because [reason for being cleared, such as receiving a doctor’s release or my caregiving obligations coming to an end]. I apologise for any inconvenience my absence may have caused.
I have been keeping up with [projects, clients, or responsibilities] despite my absence, and I am prepared to resume my work. I want to thank you and [company] once more for your tolerance, flexibility, and patience during this time. It is an honor to work for such a charitable organization.
Sincerely,
[Name]
[Signature]
Return-to-work letter example
You can use these powerful return to work letter examples to help you create your own:
Example 1: Returning after illness
Here is an illustration of a letter you might write to request permission to resume work after being ill:
Dear Mrs. Roehr,
I appreciate your tolerance and understanding during this period. I’m writing to let you know that as of April 15th, my doctor has given me the all-clear to go back to work.
As you are aware, I developed pneumonia a little over a month ago and had to spend several weeks in the hospital. Now that I’m feeling better, I can’t wait to get back to work. I have communicated with my coworkers while I’ve been sick and have kept up with any adjustments made by my client, Corner Communications, so that I can resume my previous performance as soon as possible.
I’ve included my doctor’s release forms, which outline my ability to resume my role. If you have any questions or concerns, kindly let me know.
Once again, I appreciate your help and tolerance while I was recovering. I feel so privileged to be employed by Mighty Media.
Sincerely,
Brenda Bates
Example 2: Returning after maternity leave
Dear Mr. Szatmary,
I’m writing to let you know that, as of March 10, 2021, I will resume working for Freedom Health as a human relations specialist. You are aware that on December 10, 2020, I started my maternity leave.
I’ve spoken to my boss and coworkers, so I’m aware of the most recent procedural changes. I’m eager to get back to work and give everything I have to it, including my all-time best effort and performance.
Sincerely,
Casey Davis
How To Make A Letter Of Intent To Return To Work
FAQ
How do I write a letter to return to work?
- Address the letter to the correct person. …
- Thank them for authorizing your work leave. …
- Attach the proper documentation. …
- Mention how you plan to get reacclimated. …
- Close the letter with gratitude.
What is a return to work notice?
The return-to-work process aims to make it as easy as possible for an employee to return to their job, who is frequently someone who is recovering from an illness or injury, or who has become disabled.
How do you announce a return to office?
I hope this notice finds you well and safe during this historic time, [employee name] We are happy to announce [Company name] has started the process of reopening our buildings and welcoming employees back to the workplace after we all worked remotely over the previous few months.
How do I return to work from leave?
- Set up a meeting with your supervisor. …
- Consider asking for a transition period or flex scheduling. …
- Notify coworkers you’re friendly with. …
- Make your first day gracious. …
- Show that you’ve still got it. …
- Prepare for questions about your absence. …
- Don’t doubt yourself.
