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We are all aware of the impact Covid-19 has had on the world, and we are doing our best to adapt to a new world. Returning to work is one of the most significant safety fears. Yet, productivity post-Covid isn't in as much trouble as you might think. A new workplace paradigm is underway across the globe. Employers and staff are working together to create a safe space using hybrid office plans. Plans include remote working apps, more social media engagement, and Covid safety protocols.
Hybrid Office
If the pandemic did one thing throughout the worst of it, it opened the world's eyes to the advantages of remote working. Lockdown restrictions mean employees were forbidden from working at the office. Yet, in April 2020, 46% of the employed work from home, and of those, almost 90% did so because of Covid-19. In addition, falling vaccination rates mean people are returning to work. But in some cases, safety is a priority, and apps that allow for hybrid office features such as desk reservation and schedule management are becoming popular among employers.
Remote Apps
Remote apps for scheduling, meetings, file sharing, and video conferences have been a godsend throughout the pandemic. Because of these apps, companies were able to function at a somewhat standard rate. Additionally, self-employed people such as tutors and instructors were able to communicate live with clients.
This is made possible with remote apps like:
Slack
Discord
Basecamp
Microsoft Teams
Zoom
Google Meet
Asana
Trello
The features of these apps, the pricing, and convenience mean remote work is now becoming a normal thing to do. For example, it is suggested that around 20% of the workforce will work remotely three to five days per week - four times more than pre-Covid levels.
Social Engagement
You will have heard of social media, and you will likely use one or platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn. While social media has been a valuable tool for communication for the past ten years, it is even more valuable following the pandemic. Quick and easy access via smartphones, tablets, and PC in addition to instant and updated communication, means business is conducted in real-time. In short, social media is an efficient tool and is utilized by employees, management, and human resources alike.
Safety Evaluation
As an employer, owner or manager, you have a responsibility to protect the welfare of your employees. Health and safety regulations are already in place, such as the UK's Health & Safety at Work Act 1974. Yet following the Covid-19 pandemic, you owe it to your staff to adopt a policy change and evaluate your Covid safety measures. You cannot expect your employees to work well or even turn up to work if a virus threatens their lives. Some protection measures you can try include:
Regular disinfection
Installing sanitization stations
PPE
Mask-wearing policies
Discourage contact
Desk and chair spacing
Remote meetings
Mental health support
These general and easily implemented policies are proving effective in work environments all over the world. With social distancing alone, a UK survey found that 85% of the people surveyed believed this is one of the most important factors to staying safe during Covid.
