COVID-19 has been a very tricky time for companies around the world to navigate. Businesses needed to do things they have never done before, like work from home, attend video conference calls, and experience a lapse in breakroom donuts. As we strive into the future together, we cannot revert to the same ways; let COVID-19 be an opportunity for a better, brighter future for your company. Here are five things your organization can do to make your post-pandemic company even better than before.
Increased Flexibility
COVID-19 has shown us the importance of workplace flexibility, and now, it is no longer a benefit, but an expectation from employers. In a survey from Zenefits, they found that 77% of workers have flexibility as a top priority in their job search, which means offering a flexible workplace will be crucial to hiring great talent. The transition to a more flexible working environment must happen quickly because about 30% percent of workers have left jobs due to their lack of flexibility.
So, the spectrum of flexibility will vary from team to team. Still, you can offer flexibility with better PTO policies, WFH benefits, and empathy for sick employees – because if this pandemic taught us anything, it is to stay home when you feel sick!
Enhanced Digitization
The quickness of the pandemic pushed workers around the world to dial in on their digital skills. Suddenly, workers needed to establish a WFH office to maintain a “normal” workday. For a boost in efficiency, we expect an increase in video conferences and other technologies to make your workforce more agile. Make the necessary investments in the technology your post-pandemic company needs to keep the ball rolling and your team more productive.
An Overload of Sanitizer
Once everyone returns to the office, workplace hygiene will be at an all-time high. Employees washing their hands and sanitizing throughout the day will become habitual, and honestly, completely necessary. An overload of hand sanitizer and other cleaning routines should be encouraged to ensure the safety of all employees.
Clear Expectations
Transitioning into a post-pandemic world will have its own set of challenges. It is different than it was previously, and you need to lay out clear expectations for what you want from your employees. Clear communication and building trust with your team will be essential as we start to return to work.
Laid-Back Dress Code
Professional outfits hit the back burner while WFH parents had to work from home and watch their children. As we transition to a new normal, there’s a trend toward casual dressing. If appropriate, relax your dress code protocol to make your team feel a little more comfortable as they return.
So, let’s reimagine your post-pandemic company: more flexible, caring, and safe. Relax the strict workplace rules that have been around for decades and offer your employees a workplace experience that they won’t want to leave.
