The pandemic has changed the business landscape massively, specifically when it comes to human resource management. Initially, there was the challenge of managing remote operations. Now that the businesses are reopening gradually, HR managers are struggling to comply with regulations and ensure safety for the people on board. Needless to say, their role has been vital through the first stage of the pandemic and will continue to be even more important ahead. From offering reassurance to providing much-needed compassion to the employees even as they ensure seamless operations, there is a lot they are handling right now. Here the crucial steps that HR managers need to implement for organizations in the pandemic era.
Keep up with having less
Things are not easy on the economic front in the crisis situation. Many companies are struggling with budget constraints, which means that they need to do more with less. Your HR department needs to adopt innovative means to provide positivity and fun without pushing mindless employee activities. For example, they can offer free online courses and gamification to keep people connected and engaged.
Communicate with empathy
While employee engagement is something your HR team must prioritize, it is even more important to communicate with empathy. Right now, people are isolated and apprehensive about the disease and job security. Showing empathy and listening to them can boost their confidence and foster trust. This translates into better productivity and performance even during the crisis.
Invest in training
Since a business may not be coming in as usual during the pandemic, this is the right time to invest in training and upskilling your employees. Your HR team can take the initiative and design training plans for various roles and work functions. You can also consider outsourcing HR consulting services to tailor new programs that benefit the employees as individuals and the organization as a whole. Gaining new skills will make people more confident and keep them relevant to evolving industry trends.
Provide strong support
Nothing is more important than supporting your team during a crisis and this is something your HR managers can help with. It is time to identify sustainable practices to keep the business and its employees in sync. Whether the employees work remotely or in the office, managers need to go the extra mile with the health and well-being of the employees. There may be a need for realigning the company policies and practices with the aim to provide better support to the employees.
Represent compassionate leadership
At this stage, your HR managers need to double up as compassionate leaders who are willing to give it all for the welfare of the employees. This is possible only if they are in close touch and always available for them. It is important to convey that your employees matter for the company, which is something that great people managers can do. Further, even as they ensure work continuity, the ultimate aim should be to be there for your people.
The end of the pandemic era is bound to change the face of businesses and employees. At the same time, it will lay new ground rules for HR professionals, with the aim to strike a balance between organizational growth and the personal well-being of the people who work for them.
