4 Tips for Re-Entering the Workplace

People are now re-entering the workplace after months of closures due to COVID-19. Whether you are a business owner or an employee heading back to the office, you are no doubt thinking about the precautions which will keep you and those around you healthy as the virus continues to circulate. Workplace leaders have the responsibility of setting the tone for returning employees and making sure everyone understands their personal responsibility in preventing the spread of the virus.

As you consider the recommended safety measures to keep your workplace safe, remember that one thing is critical to your success: getting everyone in the office to cooperate.

Any given group of people will probably cover the spectrum of emotion and opinion on the situation. From those who are “over it” and dismissing social distancing; those who are very worried about being around other people; and many who are somewhere in between. Despite the steps employers may take to protect returning workers, from frequent sanitizing to implementing social distancing, no safety measure will be effective without each employee’s buy-in.

Here are four tips for safely getting back to the office.

Take It Seriously

As business reopens, remember that there are still real threats and worries. There’s a great Winston Churchill quote that applies to the pandemic’s current state: “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” Getting back to work means balancing ongoing risk from coronavirus to ensure businesses and jobs continue. Make it clear that you understand the gravity of the situation. Respect employee concerns about health and wellbeing, ensure that safety measures are in place, and keep open communication with employees.

Start at the Top

People are returning to work in uncertain times, with little idea of what to expect. It’s an ideal time to create new habits. Clearly define new policies and procedures and communicate precisely what needs to happen. Employees will be looking to company leadership to set the tone for their own behavior. They will be watching what you do even more than listening to what you say, so model the behavior you want to see in the office. Continue to avoid high-risk behaviors such as handshakes, close proximity to others and practice good hygiene. If you see something, speak up politely.  

Implement Accountability Measures

A recent article in the Harvard Business Review emphasized the importance of employees following safe practices themselves, but also ensuring that everyone around them does as well. Leaders need to empower staff to act when they see anyone else violating safe practices by reminding them of the proper protocol with a polite “please,” as in “Please wear a mask when you’re in the office.” This rule has to cross boundaries of rank or position; anyone should feel free to ask the CEO to wear a mask kindly, and the CEO should respond with a “thank you” and comply. Remind employees that these practices benefit them and their loved ones and allow their business to keep going – something everyone has a vested interest in.

Consider New Solutions

Be willing to consider alternatives that are a better fit for the health and safety and preferences of employees. Is telecommuting an option for some employees, either full-time or a couple of days a week? Having employees work in shifts or on alternating days could decrease exposure and provide employees with greater peace of mind. Keep an open mind to new ways of working effectively and productively. Ask for input from your employees and be understanding of their feedback. Your staff needs to know you have their health and wellbeing as your first priority. 

You may also like Handshake Etiquette After COVID-19. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.

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