Planning and preparing for a new working ‘normal’ post lockdown

It’s a strange time for many businesses. We’ve been shown a plan out of lockdown but still remain unsure of when it will happen and the logistics surrounding it. This uncertainty brings with it a fear of the unknown and potentially an exposure to increased risk. At a time when many business owners and managers might rely on established structures and processes to plan, there is a feeling that this might not be enough, particularly after a year of disruption.

Different is the new normal

Personally, I think that one of the biggest changes to come out of the current pandemic is that future workplaces will look very different. The new ‘normal’, whatever that is, will certainly feature more remote working, increased use of technology and a need to keep employees involved, connected, motivated, productive, as well as safe and healthy.

So, what does this mean for business owners, senior managers and those in HR? Obviously, there will need to be changes to culture and organisational design. But in many cases, adjustments to office space, usage (collaborative working spaces – hot desking?) and social distancing may also need to be considered. And whilst technology has been a boon, it could be essential to manage people’s screen time usage to ensure they get sufficient breaks to protect their wellbeing and mental health.

A bumpy ride

It’s likely to be a bumpy ride for a while as we all adjust, and key to a smoother transition is good communication, flexibility, availability and accessibility. Managers need to keep employees informed of what is happening and encourage them to share their own personal challenges and issues and be proactive and responsive when trying to find workable solutions. Success when managing change is very much about having a positive outlook and attitude - a springboard to a more productive and balanced workforce.

We may not know what it will look like, or indeed when it will happen, but I believe that there are some real opportunities to offer all employees choice, trust and flexibility in a blended or hybrid working model that will engage, protect and empower them.

Here are some of my tips to help you navigate this period of uncertainty.

1.    Ensure that staff know they are valued and supported both individually and as members of a larger team.

2.    Communicate and engage staff in relevant changes and decisions.

3.    Take the time to understand any fears about returning to the office, or starting to meet clients again, and prioritise their needs, as well as adhering to health and safety considerations for mental and physical wellbeing.

4.    Think more creatively about effective ways of working, and harness more agile and flexible working practices to meet changing expectations.

5.    Look at coaching, training or development opportunities to boost managers and employees’ skills and areas of learning so they can thrive and become more productive.

If you’d like some help to find your new working ‘normal’ please get in touch. I can support you through bespoke one-to-one coaching, or development programmes so that your business can continue to develop and grow.