Help Reduce the Pressure on Parents

Back to school may not give parents the break they need after months of being at home with their children. Depending on what part of the country they live in, children may still do part or even all of their classes online, which would require supervision. At the very least, school-aged children may be coping with an unfamiliar school situation, requiring parental support and attention.

Given these circumstances, employers can consider introducing flexible working arrangements, let staff work from home, if they’re not already, or allow hours to accommodate their parenting schedule.

Working parents might also have trouble finding or affording child care arrangements if physical classrooms stay partly or fully closed. Businesses may want to consider providing access to a child care referral system (if available).

Employers can also provide workers, whether at home or in the office, with guidelines from the CDC about regular hand-washing, social distancing, safe coughing and sneezing practices, and cleaning protocols.

Help for stress caused by the pandemic can be met with pointers to reliable sources and trusted professionals. Some companies have even recommended mindfulness or meditation apps, such as Headspace, Calm, or Smiling Mind, for stress relief.

Help Improve the New Normal

Yes, there are many sound business reasons for companies to find ways to help support their workers in difficult, changing times. But, most of all, how they respond to this crisis may just reveal the type of organizations they strive to be.

The companies that try to help their workers can stand out. They could create a bond and also make a statement seen by people inside the organization and out. Employers can provide a steady rock of support that can earn them loyalty and attract new talent impressed by the working culture.

By making employees their priority, businesses can help the new normal become a better one.

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The New Normal: The Impact on Employees