Gesture & etiquette

Announce your return audibly but not loudly as you enter the work area. Make brief, warm eye contact with nearby colleagues. If you were at a client meeting, a brief 'お疲れ様です' from colleagues may also follow.

Announcing your return to the office is standard Japanese workplace etiquette. The fuller form 'ただいま戻りました' is used in professional settings, while 'ただいま' alone is used at home. Always greet colleagues upon re-entering — silent returns can feel dismissive.