Coronavirus deeply affected the way we live and socialize. Throwing or attending big gatherings, such as weddings, is no longer advised. We need to learn how to adapt and live in the new normal without jeopardizing our health. But how does this affect the workplace?
Even though we've all struggled to adapt to the new way of living, workplace managers had to tackle a lot of new and unfamiliar problems. So, to make it easier for you, we've created a simple guide that will help you manage your workplace during the covid-19.
- 1. Highlight the importance of health
One of the main reasons why the Coronavirus is still a thing is because most people cease to follow the government's guidelines. Even though work from home is recommended, for some industries, such as manufacturers, such a solution isn't possible. That's why you need to set certain rules at your workplace regarding health.
Ensure that you always have enough hand sanitizers and disinfectants at the workplace. On top of that, make face masks mandatory to protect your employees from catching the virus. Also, don't neglect the importance of mental health, as people tend to feel anxious, isolated, and depressed during times like these!
- 2. Create an adequate work environment
Since remote work isn't possible everywhere, you need to think of alternative solutions to protect your employees and minimize the spread of the Coronavirus. If possible, create a two-meters distance between your employees while they are at a workplace. On top of that, introduce two or even three shifts to ensure your factories and premises aren't overly busy.
As the world is constantly changing, it's no coincidence that Millennials shape the future of work. Therefore, creating a virtual workspace where you can join forces and combat difficulties together while remaining at home is a best-case scenario for situations such as a pandemic.
- 3. Use digital tools whenever possible
During the pandemic, we've learned that physical distance is necessary. Even though people are social beings who like to hang out, this pandemic thought us that sometimes taking a step back is necessary. So, try to implement as many digital tools in your work environment as possible. Some suggestions are conference calls, social media platforms, chats, and even online video games!
These tools will help you manage your workforce even from afar. You can check up on your employees and provide them with some tips on how to work from home with children. Meetings will be cut short as there will be no need to travel from one part of the town to another. On top of that, you can comfortably sit in your pajamas while completing a task. Just don't forget to dress up for a video conference call!
- 4. Find ways to increase employee engagement
One of the hardest challenges managers face during the pandemic is how to keep their employees engaged and productive while they are working from home! Since looking directly at their screen isn't possible, you'll simply have to trust them. But is there a trick to keep them engaged and motivated to complete their tasks?
Even though working from home is more distracting to some, other employees will blossom in such an environment. It's up to you as a manager to create a balance and implement a platform that will help you keep your employees organized and indulged in their workplace. Find out more here about how you can maintain productivity at an all-time high as well as make work fun for your front-line workers!
Last, but not least, if you want to manage your employees well even during these difficult times, you need to become a better and more responsible leader for them. That will include finding some ideas for workforce management as well as leading by example.
If you're not following the rules that you made, why should anybody else?! Be the first one who initiates the importance of health and the one who teaches your employees how to stay productive while working from home. On top of that, don't neglect the business goals, and remind your team how crucial they are.
Managing the workforce especially during these uncertain times is challenging. It's an obstacle course we need to go through to become better managers and team leaders. You will certainly learn a lot about your employees and how they function during the pandemic, so use that knowledge wisely to update the work environment.
About the author:
Peter is a fashion stylist and a writer from Brisbane, Australia. After graduating from Australian Institute of Creative Design he worked as a fashion stylist for few local fashion events. Beside fashion and styling, he enjoys traveling around exotic destinations and discovering new vintage stores. He's future plans are in creating his personal styling business.
