Although COVID is still with us, the worst of the pandemic seems to be over. Everyone is eager to settle back into normalcy, but the truth is that we can’t go back to the way things were. Change is necessary and inevitable. Moving forward, put your focus on reviving, restructuring, and revamping:
- Work on reviewing and updating polices. Make sure they align with workers’ expectations and needs. For instance, scheduling flexibility is one of workers’ top priorities in the post-pandemic world. Your policies should spell this out, including who is eligible, what flexibility options are available, and how they will work.
- Focus on work-life balance for employees. After the pandemic, everyone has a greater appreciation for the ability to work reasonable hours and handle realistic responsibilities. Make sure you have policies that focus on mental wellbeing, wellness programs and opportunities, and management that is supportive and encouraging of healthy workloads.
- Work with HR to find ways to support managers and employees to manage change. This may include training and coaching opportunities, team building, and support groups.
- Workers will need to feel confident that the post-pandemic workplace will be safe and comfortable. Encourage them to express their needs, share their feeling, and get help and support if they need it. Communication ways management is creating a safe workplace and protecting everyone from illness and injury.
