This article examines potential challenges of the return to face-to-face meetings following COVID-19 lockdown. Whilst current guidelines (in November 2020) do not permit a return to face-to-face meetings, it is important to prepare for a future change in restrictions. By examining recent and relevant research, this article covers the potential social and physical challenges and the barriers to effective working. In section 1, the social barriers include the impact of poor mental health amongst employees and a need to re-learn verbal cues. Section 2 then sets out the physical barriers caused by social distancing restrictions, hygiene requirements, and wearing face coverings. Finally, section 3 indicates the varying impact that lockdown has had on effective working in terms of work-life balance. Altogether, research indicates that the best recommendation for the return to in-person meetings is a flexible and compassionate approach to mitigate potential challenges.
