We are seeing some great examples of proactive communication, and it is working to put employees minds at ease. This is a time to lead and give those on your team an alternative to the fear and hand wringing they see in the media.
The most proactive leadership teams are meeting every day to stay on top of new information. Already we are seeing a shift in attitudes and approach. Here's what I mean. Last week all the focus was on "What can we do to assure customers it is safe to work with us?" Now companies are starting to ask "How can we make sure customers aren't going to get our employees sick." The shift is pragmatic.
Building departments and county offices are staying open, but are closed to the public. This means using online means to acquire permits or request inspections. Communication from Sarasota County assured businesses that inspections would continue to take place, but with enhanced precautions. Bars are closed, but restaurants are open (with reduced capacity). Beaches are open for groups of ten or less (?). Even the shelter in place orders enacted in northern California contain some broad exemptions that will keep many businesses open. In other words, life must go on.
We are seeing our first cases of leadership team members working from home in an abundance of caution after feeling ill or being around someone else who was feeling ill. Let's face it, some of your employees are going to get sick and experience flu like symptoms for a few days. It will impact your workforce. This is where the cross training and work on processes and procedures that you've been doing will pay off.
When you have employees out sick take extra measures to check in on them and keep them up to speed on what is happening back at the office. They will miss the community, culture and connection to their friends and coworkers while they are out. And without you they will be at the mercy of mass media and social media for their information. Don't let that happen. Continue to encourage and care for them until they can come back stronger than ever.
Something neat we have seen in two totally unrelated situations is businesses pushing forward with virtual initiatives that have historically had slow adoption rates by customers. People don't like change until it works in their favor. A 100% virtual estimate and sales proposal that seemed too much of a hassle last month is welcomed today. The option to teleconsult with the family physician wasn't even considered 30 days ago, but is eagerly accepted now. If you have opportunities to virtualize some aspect of your product or service delivery, now is the time to offer those alternatives to a receptive customer base.
Finally, a word of encouragement. Did you know that Fortune magazine was started during the Great Depression by an entrepreneur who wanted to inspire and encourage others during a difficult time? I learned that on a family vacation to Chicago 4 years ago (thanks, Carrie for reminding me). Be a light to those around you. Inspire, encourage and exhort! Never underestimate your role as a leader and the impact you have on your team by walking through the door with the right attitude.