With anxiety and uncertainty at all-time highs, employees want to know that their employers are looking out for their health, safety and well-being and they want to know that their jobs are safe.

Addressing these concerns isn't just about being good to employees, it's just good for business. Anxious employees are not productive and given the losses that so many companies have experienced since March of 2020, it's necessary to do everything possible to maintain productivity while addressing valid employee questions. Use these strategies to help employees manage COVID-related concerns.

Make Health and Safety Your Number One Priority

Do not just provide lip service. Walk the walk. Follow all state rules and CDC guidelines for social distancing, mask-wearing, other personal protective equipment (PPE), sanitizing, and more. Make sure managers are enforcing all COVID-related safety practices. Communicate any changes in protocol clearly and if necessary, institute a zero-tolerance policy for noncompliance.

Some of the actions employees want to see include:

• Extensively clean and sanitize work areas regularly
• Require sick employees to stay home
• Institute flexible sick leave policies
• Promote ongoing personal hygiene
• Provide PPE
• Screen all employees before entering the building
• Offer work-from-home or other alternatives for older and at-risk employees
• Provide resources for mental health and support

Share Company Data

Employees aren't just worried about their health and safety. They are also worried about their jobs. According to a recent national survey by Weber Shandwick and KRC Research, over half of all workers worry about the future of the company they work for -- and their job specifically.

Be open and transparent about how the company is doing. It can be scary to share such data with employees if your company is off-target, but people appreciate honesty and transparency. You can combat some anxiety by helping every employee understand how their role is tied to the big picture. Let them know their jobs are important and their contributions are valued. This can help them stay engaged and give it their all to keep the company moving forward.

Be Flexible

Employees want to know that they will not lose their jobs if they get sick, need to be tested, need to quarantine from possible exposure, need to care for a loved one, etc. Be flexible with employees during this time and regularly remind them that they will not be penalized if they or someone in their household receives a positive diagnosis.

Looking For More Ideas on Managing COVID-Related Concerns?

If you're looking for more ideas on managing employee concerns or if you want access to on-demand talent to fill in for burned out, sick or absent employees, staffing experts of PrideStaff are ready to help. Reach out to our team today to get started.