Photo by Norbert Levajsics on Unsplash
As Coronavirus sweeps the UK increasing numbers of people are working from home. While many employees might be pleased at such a turn of events, what does this really mean for wellbeing and morale? Not everyone will want to or be able to work from home. With information and advice changing on a daily basis, staying in touch and being flexible is paramount. What works today may change tomorrow. Top tips for employers We typically spend a lot of effort on ergonomic assessment in the workplace, this is rarely carried out for home workers. Give workers clear advice about working at home safely and healthily – offer to let them take their office chair home if they don’t have one. Deal with people on an individual basis – last week was fine but now you may have someone where both parents are working from home and they now have 2 under 5’s who need looking after. Shorter hours ?, staggered shifts, you will need to look for ways to make it work. Employers need to set expectations including working hours and what employees are expected to deliver. However, it is also important that businesses realise some homeworkers might not only be under considerable stress because of this change in environment, but might also be unable to work as productively during this period depending on their home circumstances. [ shared accommodation, poor broadband, lack of space] Employers need to create a balance between maintaining ‘business as usual’ and the negative impact the current situation may have on employees’ productivity, mental health and wellbeing. Think about those who live alone, they may need additional communication and interaction. People will be doing the best they can and adapting to their environment, allow some time for people to settle. Yes, people can be trusted, that’s why you hired them! Employee wellbeing Much of the evidence about home working points to positive benefits, including improved work-life balance and increases in job satisfaction and productivity. However, it is important to note that such evidence is based primarily on studies of individuals who have chosen to work at home. Imagine now the situation where many thousands of individuals are forced to work from home, with little time to consider any adjustments that might be necessary to make this work. While some employees might welcome increased solitude, others will suffer from feelings of isolation or loneliness ,removing individuals from their work-based (and indeed other) social circles could have a significantly negative effect on their welfare Employers need to think about how they can maintain levels of social support while their workforce is home-based – through enterprise social media, regular online meetings or even just the occasional phone call. Line managers should be encouraged to ensure employees continue to receive the same level of support and recognition they would in the workplace. Home-based employees need to feel they can still switch off at the end of the day and take breaks – this can be more difficult when the lines between home and work become blurred. This might be complicated further if other family are also at home, which is likely in the upcoming weeks. Those who have tried to work at home with any caring responsibility – will appreciate how stressful this can be. I have been home based for a number of years and here is what I have found works for me.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorHR Consultant sharing information and experience across a range of people issues Archives
October 2020
Categories |