Human Resources Issues for California Employers
Here are some key issues to keep in mind when navigating COVID-19's impact on the workplace. Remember that Human Resources is at the front lines of employers’ response to the COVID-19 crisis.
This crisis is forcing almost every business to develop, adapt or improve remote work policies and procedures. This means that as Human Resources personnel struggle to keep employees safe and informed, it helps to think about what changes might be permanent and how they can guide employees and organizational leadership through continual and fluctuating changes.
It is key for HR to promote a climate of calm while also engaging leadership to respond with timely, accurate, assertive, clear, and consistent communication from all levels of the organization. In addition, communication needs to be honest, open, and as transparent as possible to maintain credibility. Staff is a company’s most valuable asset, and it is HR’s responsibility to remember and reinforce that throughout the organization.
Here are 3 key areas HR can improve and revamp for the COVID-crisis.
Reconsider Leaves and Policies
Stay updated. Monitor changes and updates on new employment legislation that impact employee benefits and leave, like the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) to develop solutions around implementation and communication.
Define and modify policies, controls, and practices that address these emergencies.
Implement Remote Work Strategies
Social distancing is key for helping slow down the spread of COVID-19. If working remotely is a possibility, HR should work with IT to ensure the smooth transition to a remote work scenario.
Activate a Communication Phone Tree, to make sure everyone knows the channels of communication in an emergency.
Create and share a quick guide for supervisors and employees with best practices for working remotely. This guide should address efforts to encourage health and well-being, work engagement, boundaries, and the rhythm and pace of remote work. Make sure you set up a live meeting to share these practices.
Avoid Bias, Discrimination, and Exclusion
Xenophobia and racism are spreading even more quickly than the virus itself, and HR must be attentive and continue to build leadership, respect and equity. Ensure that your organizations talks about this and supports an environment free from micro-aggressions within your workplace and beyond.
Ensure that your staff continues to demonstrate respect towards each other and encourage staff to come forward to HR if they become aware of anti-race comments, behaviors or jokes. Have clear anti-discrimination policies in place and they are implemented equitably.
Lastly but most importantly, do not forget to show your humanity and your compassion. Share strategies on how to stay physiologically resilient in the midst of these strange and difficult times. Business is not “as usual” right now, and it will take time to adjust to a new routine. There is still much uncertainty, and the economic and social impacts of this pandemic will have long lasting effects.
If you have questions about this topic or anything else COVID-related to your business operations, please reach out to us for a free consultation. We are here to help!
