Changing the Workforce for the New Normal

Many weren’t ready for the COVID-19 crisis. People’s health are threatened as well as the country’s economy, particularly the labor and employment sector. Almost 2.7 billion workers, which represent 81 percent of the world’s workforce, have been affected by the full and partial lockdown, according to the International Labor Organization’s monitoring report.

In our country, businesses facing catastrophic losses and employment contraction on a large scale are trying to cope with the rigors of the crisis just the same. Everyone is now finding ways to survive, and adhere to the restrictions since the broader Metro Manila and some regions have been placed under quarantine. On June 1, 2020, the government has started to enforce new rules and regulations for GCQ or General Community Quarantine that supposedly ended on the 15^th of June. However, due to their assessment on NCR or the National Capital Region’s COVID-19 cases, it has now been extended until further notice.

Entrepreneurs, specifically small business owners, have been disquiet and expressed their concerns on the possibility of closing down their business, if they will not be allowed to operate again soon. Due to this, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) have issued mandatory precautionary measures through The Interim Guidelines on Workplace Prevention and Control of COVID-19. It requires both workers and employers to abide by the new set of rules and reassure compliance with strict health protocols.

So how can your company guide its employees in returning to work while protecting them from the threat of a microscopic enemy? Here are a few tips in changing the workforce for the new normal.

1. Consider Work-from-Home Option

Working remotely has truly become a commonplace because of the global pandemic brought by the Coronavirus. This kind of workplace setup is practical and easier for employees to adapt to the new normal. If properly equipped, they can plug in and connect from the comforts of their own homes. All you need is to shift your gear and go digital to coordinate with your employees and monitor their productivity, even when they work remotely. Use video conferencing instead of requiring your people to report to work in the office. You can also make use of productivity tools that are made available for free online.

2. Work-from-Home Is Not For All

As much as we like the work-from-home setup, unfortunately, it does not apply to all. There are industries that could not shift to remote work such as Manufacturing and Food & Beverage. If your business falls under the same category of industry, apart from the mandatory government benefits, medical and insurance coverage for employees may just be what your company needs to consider.

3. Modify Your Company’s Leave Policies

The landscape of many workplaces has changed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. You must lay down new policies and procedures to adapt to the modified workplace and abide by the new laws. Remember to be considerate of your employees’ health and safety to strengthen your excellence for occupational safety reputation. Updating your employee leave policies to accommodate personal leaves with fewer hassles also makes stellar brand advocates.

4. Revisit Your Corporate Social Responsibilities

Consider it a vital component of adapting to the new normal the realigning of your vision and mission to today’s situation. Companies that extend their support to others in the society have exemplary standards in corporate social responsibility. Giving support to frontliners and the underprivileged through donations and relief efforts will begin advocacies and can prove you have a mission beyond your brand.