Many business owners are grappling with having to close offices in response to the global COVID-19 outbreak. These unprecedented measures bring up many questions create many questions. For heads of companies looking for extra guidance during this time, we\u2019ve compiled considerations for how to best handle and communicate office closures.<\/p>\n
Communication with employees is extremely important during this time. Be transparent with them about potential office closures, the reason why you\u2019re closing, and when they can expect to be back in office. If you don\u2019t have the answers to these questions, that\u2019s ok. However, be sure to let them know this so they don\u2019t feel they\u2019re being left in the dark.<\/p>\n
While employees are working from home, stay in contact with them. This might be a weekly e-mail or virtual meeting to update workers on any information or changes. It\u2019s also important to stay visible as you\u2019re the one they look to for leadership. Knowing that you\u2019re present and working will keep employees motivated and company moral high.<\/p>\n
Is there anything your business offers that can be communicated virtually? Gyms have shifted to offering virtual workouts for consumers. Other brands have shifted to creating and offering timely products, or donating their time and material to those in need. This will keep employees busy and the brand visible and relevant.<\/p>\n
What took place in-office that now needs to function externally? You can use third-party platforms and apps to have phone calls forwarded directly to employees cellphones. Create accounts with video conferencing platforms which will allow employees to virtually connect for meetings more personably than over a phone call. Additionally, make sure your office mail and any important packages are forwarded to someone who will be able to receive and handle them appropriately.<\/p>\n
Include essential stakeholders in assessing the company\u2019s current functionality, and how long the company can afford to continue with this work structure. Identify turning points on a timeline. When will hard financial and operational decisions have to be made? Begin preparing for operational downsizing or layoffs sooner rather than later, giving you more time to plan.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Many business owners are grappling with having to close offices in response to the global COVID-19 outbreak. These unprecedented measures bring up many questions create many questions. For heads of …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":4927,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15,63],"tags":[113,55,64,250,48,206],"yoast_head":"\r\n