Employers are dealing with a lot right now. From shutdowns and business interruption to outbreaks and workers\u2019 compensation claims, navigating the pandemic is not easy. However, while employers are focusing on keep their businesses afloat, they also need to make sure their employees are keeping their heads above water.<\/p>\n
The coronavirus pandemic has become a major source of stress. People are worried about job security and health, and they\u2019re struggling with the changes to their daily schedules. A survey from the American Psychological Association<\/a> asked U.S. adults to rate their stress on a scale of one to 10, with 10 indicating a great deal of stress. The average stress score was 5.4 in general and 5.9 related to the pandemic. This is a substantial increase compared to just a year ago, when the average score was only 4.9.<\/p>\n Respect the Need for Work-Life Balance<\/strong><\/p>\n Working from home may help with some work-life balance issues, but it does not solve everything. This is especially true now that many schools have closed their classrooms and children are learning from home. As a result, many parents are trying to work from home while also supervising their children as they attend school from home.<\/p>\n Given this, it isn\u2019t surprising that parents are reporting especially high stress levels.\u00a0 In the American Psychological Association survey mentioned above, parents with children under age 18 reported an average stress score of 6.7, much higher than that of their childless peers.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t assume that employees have it easy because they\u2019re working from home. They may actually be more stressed than ever, and they may need additional time off and flexibility to deal with all of the unprecedented pressures.<\/p>\n Check in with Your Employees<\/strong><\/p>\n With so many people feeling isolated and uncertain, strong communication is a must.<\/p>\n Make sure that you\u2019re communicating with your team regularly. This should include daily check-ins, but the schedule isn\u2019t the only thing that matters. What you say is important, as well.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t wait for your employees to speak up, and don\u2019t assume that everything is fine until you hear otherwise. Ask your employees how they\u2019re doing and whether they need help with anything \u2013 and make it clear that you really want to know. Maintain a positive (but not insincere) tone and let your employees know they are valued and appreciated.<\/p>\n Additionally, while video conferencing can be a great way to communicate while practicing social distancing, don\u2019t go overboard. Many people find video conferencing to be especially draining, and as this Wall Street Journal<\/a> article explains, people have started complaining of \u201cZoom Fatigue.\u201d<\/p>\n Embrace Virtual Volunteerism<\/strong><\/p>\n Workplace volunteerism has been connected to increased morale and engagement. The Deloitte Volunteerism Survey<\/a> found that 77% of workers think company-sponsored volunteer activities are essential to employee well-being, 74% think volunteerism provides an improved sense of purpose, and 89% think that companies that sponsor volunteer activities offer a better overall working environment.<\/p>\n The pandemic forced the cancellation of many events, and your company may have cancelled volunteer events. This may have been necessary at the time, but as the pandemic stretches on, the lack of volunteer activities may have a negative impact on morale and engagement.<\/p>\n Virtual volunteer activities may provide the solution. Many fundraisers and other charity events have gone virtual, and employees can participate remotely. Many local food pantries need extra support<\/a> this year.<\/p>\n Provide Resources<\/strong><\/p>\n Good communication, a supportive attitude and participation in volunteer activities can go a long way to improve engagement and help employees get through the difficult times. Some workers may need more assistance, however.<\/p>\n