In response to the global pandemic, businesses everywhere have implemented new temporary working policies, causing their employees to either work remotely or from home for the time being. And while this unusual adjustment hasn’t been too impactful on some employees, others are struggling to remain positive and productive in their workplace at home.
Whether they’re living in a tight space or are juggling other responsibilities like homeschooling their children, there’s no denying how difficult it can be for employees to keep calm and maintain a proper work-life balance during the coronavirus crisis. That’s why now is such an important time for the Human Resources department to step up at their company and help ease the anxiety of employees.
Not sure where to begin? Look no further! Here are four ways to keep your employees stress-free at home:
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Encourage the Use of Telehealth Services
A great way to keep employees stress-free at home is by encouraging the use of available telehealth services. From clinician calls to prescription delivery, telehealth and telemedicine companies have proven to be a valuable resource for patients who are unable to seek in-person treatment from their primary care physician due to the effects of COVID-19. Although these online services may vary from platform-to-platform, the majority of them cover a variety of healthcare fields— dermatology, dentistry, mental health, etc. Unfortunately, however, many people are unaware of the services they offer, causing both their health and happiness to become compromised.
For this reason, it’s essential to remind employees that prioritizing their health is just as essential as getting the job done. It doesn’t matter what they’re health concern relates to— whether they’re looking to receive a topical acne medication or talk with a doctor about migraine treatments— help is out there if and when they need it. So, by making a point they’re aware of these services and offering company guidance, you’ll not only be able to support their individual well-being but the company’s well-being as a whole.
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Consider Implementing Flexible Work Schedules
Setting and sticking to a set schedule is already challenging to begin with, but now, thanks to the coronavirus, the issue becomes even more troublesome as people are using their homes as both a workplace and a classroom for their children. With a new “normal” naturally comes a new routine, which is why you should consider carrying out flexible work schedules for employees.
Although there should be a few limitations to flexibility (e.g., continuing to 40 hours every week, only working between the hours of 7:30 am and 7:00 pm unless otherwise specified), allowing employees the ability to work when it’s more convenient for them during the day will serve to support these tough times. Additionally, it’ll offer a sense of freedom to employees, something they’ve probably been lacking since all of the COVID-19 restrictions have taken place.
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Develop an Open Door Policy
Strong, open communication is everything when it comes to a healthy, flourishing business. Yet, for some reason, communication is oftentimes one of the main issues at a company. In turn, this causes employees to lose interest in their work, leading to an unsustainable, unsuccessful business. And now, with COVID-19, open communication plays an even bigger role in keeping employees and the business running. Because the pandemic is unfamiliar and unpredictable to all of us, many people, including employees, are dealing with high levels of stress and anxiety as the effects of the coronavirus continue to unfold. Some may be worried about their employment status over the next few months; others may be concerned with being able to provide for their families.
Whatever the case may be, make sure to communicate with employees that the door to the HR team is always open. This small gesture can be a powerful way to demonstrate the value that you and the rest of the company hold towards its greatest asset, its employees. Aside from offering your support, it’ll also work to encourage employees to feel comfortable enough to discuss how the pandemic may be influencing their well-being and/or work-life. Thus, making it easier for the company to adjust its business and better align with its workers’ needs during the pandemic.
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Lead by Example
Above all, the best thing you can do for employees is to be an example. In many cases, we, as people, feed off others’ energy without realizing it. That said, it’s your job to set the expectations of your company and its employees. How? Be honest, be open, be kind, and be supportive.
If you and the rest of the HR team carry themselves as employees in distress, acting frantic, and being unproductive, then it’s only fair to expect the other employees will probably act similarly. On the other hand, if you and the rest of the HR team are transparent with others about your fears, concerns, and anxieties, employees will likely act the same. As a result, everyone will probably be more open and honest with each other, which will ultimately transpire in business efforts and overall work satisfaction.
