Everyone is thinking about Public Health and Safety during this time. The Coronavirus pandemic presents unique circumstances that we have not encountered during this generation. Hopefully, we are all willing to work together to communicate and find unique solutions that will help preserve the employee and the employer alike. Here are a few tips:

Employers:

1. Lead With Empathy

Everyone has a level of stress during this time. Be sensitive to that and watch your communication and tone

2. Check with all benefits vendors to see what is available for your employees

 i.e. EAP, Short Term Disability, Worker’s Compensation

3. Balance your approach with flexibility and safety

i.e. You may have to bend your attendance and work from home policies

4. Think of out the box solutions like rotational schedules 

Maybe rotating staff will reduce exposure if you have to stay open because of the nature of your business

5. Don’t Panic.

It makes things even more stressful and your employees are observing how you lead and handle stressful situations as an organization

6. Check for government assistance to employers, as bills for aid are passed

Employees:

1. Stay Calm and wash your hands (with soap and hot water, at least 20 seconds)

2. Stayed informed and read ALL information distributed by the organization during this time (and ask questions if needed)

3. Make sure you know your rights as an employee:

• Your possible contraction of COVID-19 could be considered a worker’s compensation claim, if you believe it was contracted at work
• If applicable, FMLA may be available to take care of you and your family
• Your employer providing accommodations for you at work if you are concerned about contraction, such as moving your work station or providing you with Personal Protective Equipment (i.e. gloves) while doing your job
• Filing for unemployment if your job temporarily closes and provides no financial assistance (Check state regulations)
• Filing a short term disability claim, if you contract the virus and your job provides no financial assistance (Usually 7 day waiting period applies)

4. Take advantage of benefits provided by your employer

• Telehealth and video doctor’s visits to check on your symptoms 
• Employee Assistance Program for counseling services (If you are feeling a little anxiety)

5. Stay put

Your plans might have been to jump ship, but if you are with an organization that is supporting you through this time and treating you fairly, you might want to reconsider for the short-term. We are unsure on what the economy or status of certain businesses are going to be long-term. You definitely do not want to transition to something unstable.