The workplace as we know it has completely altered in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether your company has been offering remote and flexible working for years, or your company culture leans towards a traditional office-based workforce, coronavirus has forced new challenges on all organizations and employees nationwide.
Though it seems we can’t escape the constant stream of unsettling news, none of the news stations seem to be answering the question that everyone wants to know most: what’s next?
Uncertainty has been taking a toll on millions of Americans, especially as it applies to job security and financial health. While many businesses are also facing this same uncertainty, the best boost you can give your company is to help alleviate some of the anxiety harbored by your employees.
Try out these tips to help boost employee morale:
Offer remote working
While many companies already have a remote work initiative in place, it’s important to note that this is one of the best approaches a company can offer to help instill trust and comfort with their workforce. Every family is different; many employees are now minding their children during the day with schools and daycares closed while others have immunocompromised family members, or are even compromised themselves. Companies that actively offer remote working flexibility give employees the ability to prioritize their families, and help instill peace of mind with a consistent job to get them through the already stressful time.
Offer Additional Benefits
A monthly stipend to go towards snacks employees usually enjoy in the office or a subscription to an employee wellbeing/mental health service can be an inexpensive lift for your company, but one that could make a world of difference for your employees. The added benefits also give employees the flexibility to utilize the services in ways that benefit them the most.
Stay Connected With Your Team
Encourage team leaders and managers to stay connected with team members – and talk about something other than work! Whether it’s a team lunch break, virtual happy hour, or a Monday morning weekend catch-up, social distancing only applies to physical groups. Maintaining a connection with your coworkers and talking to someone outside of your household can be a positive way to relieve some stress and keep your teams engaged with one another.
Check-In
We know everyone is struggling in some way right now, whether it be with stress relating to the wellness of friends and family, going stir crazy at home, or just general anxiety surrounding the unprecedented circumstances. Utilize your HR teams to schedule check-ins with employees to ensure they are coping with the changes both professionally and personally. No one has all the answers to exactly what the next few weeks and months will bring, so the best way to combat the often overwhelming feelings of uncertainty is simply to support one another through the challenges.
Undoubtedly, circumstances will change drastically for many businesses as events relating to the spread of the virus continue to play out. Many companies will have to make difficult decisions whether it be to initiate a furlough, postpone promotions or even layoff a segment of their workforce. Continue to be sensitive knowing that this is a difficult time for businesses and employees alike. Now more than ever is the time to focus on adapting practices where possible and shift the focus from a business-first to an employee-first mindset; an encouraged workforce will always benefit your business in the long-run.
