Despite your best efforts, you can’t make this pandemic go away. However, there is much you can do to keep employees engaged and boost morale in these chaotic times. Consider these steps:
- Keep people connected. With more people working remotely, you will need to prioritize efforts to keep people connected and ensure that communication and accurate information flows smoothly. A virtual “watercooler channel” can help you post news, comments and random thoughts, and other communications that mimic break room conversations. Hold a weekly one-on-one (via phone or videoconferencing if necessary) with each employee to get and give updates. Keep working with each person on goals and deadlines.
- Share everything. Uncertainty and lack of honesty lead to greater fears. Create a system to send regular updates to employees and other team members, even if thee isn’t much to share. Be open about what is happening in your organization and what leaders are saying. Give people a way to share their questions and concerns confidentially and without judgment.
- Look for small wins. Recognize and celebrate those employees and team members making the best of a difficult situation. Share stories about how their efforts are keeping residents safe and happy.
- Model optimism. While you don’t want to be unrealistic or disingenuous, it is important to stay upbeat and positive with employees. Address their concerns and problems promptly; remind them that you have their backs. Acknowledge their good work and sacrifices.
