With the increase in Covid cases over the last few months, people are feeling uneasy being around colleagues, family members and in public places. Some people are opting to use masks again. Hospitals are once again reaching capacity in critical areas and medical staff are feeling overworked. Stress is returning (although I’m not sure it ever completely left!).
One big question for organizations: what can leaders do to ensure the safety, well-being and health of their employees? Sending everyone home may not be an option. Returning to hybrid may not be an option. What is the right thing to do?
I haven’t seen or heard much discussion on this subject but I don’t believe leaders can ignore the recent increase in Covid cases. The health, well-being, and safety of our employees should always be a top priority and making a difficult decision is just that—difficult. Leaders shouldn’t overlook the option of people once again working from home. And for some, insisting that employees return to the office full time, or to resume hybrid work, is also stressful for many people and the cost may be too high.
For the foreseeable future, Covid is not going away. There are too many variants and too many unknowns. There are a few steps that could satisfy everyone. Masking, as many hospitals and medical offices are requiring for example, may be one measure that can be implemented for indoor workplaces.
On a broader level, we have seen a talent shortage develop over the last few years. As a result, many employees have left companies because they have been asked to return full-time to the office. Finding new employees to replace the open positions may be challenging for the same reason.
Can leaders satisfy the whole employee base with one decision? I would venture to say no. Some employees will be annoyed with overly strict policies and decide to leave. Others will be dissatisfied but don’t want to leave. Still others will not join a company that is inflexible.
I recommend organizations allow flexibility in the workplace. If employees are hesitant to return fulltime to the workplace, encourage them to work from home with occasional office visits. During the height of the pandemic, it was clearly demonstrated that most employees were more productive and met their deadlines when they worked from home. They were comfortable in their own home having their family close by. They could see their colleagues through Zoom, Teams or meet over the phone and maintain strong working relationships.
Leaders need to be transparent and have open, honest conversations with their employees, regardless of where they are working. Employers should have a consistent performance management system and put processes in place that allows for flexibility. Team leads can follow up with employees a few times a week to ask questions: How are you managing? Are you feeling safe, secure being at home? As your manager, is there anything I can do to help you with your workload, project assignments?
The return of Covid is making things tough—don’t add to the stress that people are feeling. Instead, let’s make it comfortable for employees to work in the best way for them. Opening the lines of communication and acknowledging that health and well-being is a priority for your employees will result in a well-rounded and successful workforce. Flexibility counts and goes a long way to ensuring employees stay in your organization.
Anne Bloom is a principal with The Osborne Group can be reached at abloom@osborne-group.com for additional information.
