Communicating with Employees during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Crisis
Prioritize Employee Well-being
During the COVID-19 crisis, maintaining open and empathetic communication with employees is essential in ensuring they feel valued, supported, and reassured. Here are some strategies to help you stay connected with your team during these challenging times.
Encourage Remote Work for Health and Safety
Empower employees to work from home if they feel unwell, even if they are uncertain about having COVID-19 symptoms. This policy should also extend to those who choose to self-isolate or have children unable to attend school or daycare. Prioritizing health and safety helps reduce anxiety and demonstrates your commitment to employee well-being.
Foster a Sense of Community
Remote work can often lead to feelings of isolation, particularly for those accustomed to a bustling office environment. Encourage employees to take breaks simultaneously and connect over video conferencing for a virtual coffee chat. This practice not only promotes relaxation but also strengthens team bonds.
Promote Team Support
Encourage team members to look out for one another by checking in on colleagues who may be feeling unwell or overwhelmed by their workload. Fostering a supportive environment helps alleviate feelings of loneliness and ensures everyone feels cared for. Remind employees it’s okay to express when they’re struggling, allowing the team to collaboratively find solutions. View: Management & Leadership training courses
Adapt to the Realities of Remote Work
Normalize Interruptions
Working from home comes with its unique set of challenges, such as interruptions from children, pets, or partners. Reinforce that these interruptions are normal and acceptable, helping employees feel more at ease during virtual meetings.
Clarify Priorities and Expectations
Clearly communicate what tasks are essential during remote work and what can be postponed until the return to the office. By providing guidance, you empower employees to prioritize effectively without constantly seeking direction, thereby fostering autonomy and efficiency.
Offer Flexible Working Hours
Recognize that employees may need to adjust their schedules to accommodate family responsibilities or care for elderly or ill neighbors. Prioritize deliverables over hours spent at the desk, allowing employees to manage their time effectively while meeting organizational goals. View: Operational Excellence training courses
Enhance Communication Channels
Regular Check-ins and Virtual Presence
Encourage line managers to have private daily conversations with each team member. This approach demonstrates care and provides individuals the space to discuss issues they might not want to share in a group setting. Additionally, consider holding daily team conference calls to maintain a sense of connection.
Leaders should maintain a visible virtual presence by streaming regular updates via video or podcast. Hosting webinar Q&A sessions allows employees to voice their concerns and receive timely responses, reinforcing a transparent and supportive organizational culture.
Provide Accessible Resources
To streamline information dissemination, publish a list of frequently asked questions with answers on the company’s intranet. Topics can include self-isolation protocols, remote work tips, event attendance, customer visits, travel advice, breaks, and virtual socialization opportunities.
Looking Ahead
We are committed to supporting you through this crisis and beyond. When you’re ready, reach out to us for a conversation on enhancing employee communication strategies tailored to your unique needs.
Effective communication within your organization is crucial during any crisis. Consider enrolling in our course designed to boost communication skills and prepare your team for unexpected challenges. Click here to learn more about our comprehensive training program.
