After months (or even years) of pajama-clad Zoom calls, returning to the office for face-to-face meetings is proving to be quite the adventure. Recently, I watched a hilarious skit by Foil Arms and Hog called “Back to the Office: When Meetings are No Longer Online,” and it perfectly captures the awkwardness of this transition.
The video starts with Kevin and John trying to kick off a meeting, only to realize that the dynamics have drastically changed. Kevin is still adjusting to having his camera on all the time, a relic from the days when “camera off” was the default. Meanwhile, John strolls in, still in his dressing gown, completely forgetting that the office has a slightly different dress code than his home office. Memo to self: suit and tie are back in fashion, even if “fashion” feels like a foreign concept now.
The video also hilariously highlights the tech troubles that seem to follow us back to the office. Kevin is asked to open a document that was literally handed to him 20 minutes ago, but he’s still acting like he needs IT support. Maybe we all need a reminder that the email attachment crisis should stay in the past.
Just when you think it couldn’t get funnier, a colleague’s partner pops into the frame, asking for help with the kids’ lunches. This is a stark reminder that home life is not as easily compartmentalized when you’re physically in the office. And then there’s the dogs. Oh, the dogs. At least they provide a great excuse to wrap up a meeting early!
The meeting wraps up in a flurry of confusion, with everyone unsure if they’re signed out, still stuck in the room, or perhaps considering taking the rest of the day off. Spoiler alert: one guy does, because why not?
This skit is a comedic but all-too-real reflection of the awkward dance we’re all doing as we return to the office. It’s a reminder to laugh at the absurdity of it all and to give ourselves some grace as we readjust. The creators, Foil Arms and Hog, along with guest comedian Emma Doran, nail the quirks of this transition perfectly.
If you haven’t seen it yet, check out the full video on YouTube and prepare for a good laugh. And if you like their work, consider supporting them on Patreon or following them on social media. Who knows, maybe they’ll inspire you to embrace the chaos with a smile.
Doomdah!