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Plotting a Course for Change in 2021

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By Caroline Shelly, Principal

Looking back at the past year, it’s easy to quote Charles Dickens; “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” For those lucky enough to work for Amazon, Pfizer or Netflix, it appears that these have been the best of times. But industries such as restaurants, spas, or health clubs have taken it on the chin. If anything, the pandemic has made us all hit the pause button and reflect on the important things in life, like family, friends, and our health. As the inoculations of the vaccine become more prevalent, re-entry to the workspace, wherever it may be, is looking hopeful. But what needs to be taken into consideration and changed in order to make the return a welcomed and positive one? A business leader’s line of attack for reentry should include an all-inclusive approach. If there’s ever been a better time to implement a change management strategy it’s now.

With more than 40% of the workforce working from home (WFH) leadership needs to take into consideration if it is working well enough to endorse the model and what’s needed to embrace this change for the long-term? Various strategies can be considered as the world starts to re-open. Departments that should be consultants on the decision include Human Resources, Facilities, and Finance. With real estate being one of the biggest expenses for corporations, it’s easy to see the advantage of needing less space if people are working from home. But a decision to reduce the square footage needs of an organization include taking into concern home office set-ups. Will individual office set-ups be required as an investment per employee which may include a printer, ergonomic chair, and connectivity? Policies implementing acceptable work hours, how to communicate, and protocols on interacting with clients need to be drafted. Alternately, some employees may find the workplace to be a haven away from busy children and cramped quarters and will welcome returning with open arms. This strategy should include the need for a facility audit to determine social distancing requirements, enlarged workstation footprints, and/or the need to space out workstations along with retrofitting building mechanisms such as faucets and doorknobs to be hands-free. The facilities department will be instrumental in making these recommendations and modifications. Another option is to consider a hybrid of both strategies; reducing the square footage of the workplace, allowing WFH to continue on a set schedule, and implementing a shared workplace policy where employees reserve a desk in advance.

Regardless of which strategy is chosen, a change management policy is crucial to its success. This policy is set by leadership as to what is acceptable and what is not. It should include training, implementing and continual monitoring to ensure success. Employees who have been on the front-lines from home have insight on how to be innovative and creative with the policy by suggesting ideas on what works and doesn’t work properly. All concepts should be considered per department needs and negotiated based on what’s best for the company as a whole. If the company begins with the desired future state in mind and works towards that vision while listening to the employee’s concerns, buying into the new policies will be easier.