Going back to work – how training could secure your company’s future

Many business owners and organisational leaders have had a tough start to 2020. The global Covid-19 pandemic has meant that many have had the difficult task of managing drastic change; from working arrangements through to staffing and overall general business practices. 

Just as the world was coming round to new ways of working, lockdowns around the globe are easing, and people are slowly transitioning back to their 'normal' lives. Of course, we're still a long way off pre-Covid levels of normality, but for now, the "new now" is here to stay. Just as many questions were asked of leaders in the first quarter of the year, and as we transition into this new chapter they are being posed with even more questions, such as;

• Can I continue to work from home?
• Will it be safe?
• Will I be made redundant?
• What does career progression look like now?

Addressing employee concerns

With a positive culture in place, and employees confident about the future of the business, there are many ways leaders can stimulate morale as we move out of the global lockdown. We've identified three groups of employees and some helpful ways businesses can aid the transition into the new normal.

Those who have been furloughed but are transitioning back to work

It's vital to note that everyone's new normal is different over the past four months; some people's priorities have changed somewhat. It's essential to understand this and try to put yourself in the shoes of your employees who might be concerned about returning to work. These people need your support and reassurance. Keep communication lines open, conversations confidential and try to understand their needs.

Those who have continued working, but from home

The fact of the matter is that without these employees, your business probably couldn't have survived the last few months. These individuals need to feel appreciated for their efforts, and this doesn't mean they want a pay rise. One way to show your gratitude could be encouraging them to take a break, or if they're ambitious, you could reward them with some Covid-secure professional development that will help advance their career within your business.

Those who are still furloughed

These employees' primary concern is going to be around job security. As they transition back to work, upskilling or offering them the chance to retrain is an excellent way to show your positive intent. Above and beyond showing your intent, this is a great way to ease people back into their working environment.

The power of learning and professional development

As outlined above, now more than ever before, employees are chasing job security and development is a great way to cultivate this, showing trust in your employees with an investment.

Throughout the lockdown period, we've been continuously delivering courses, and we have not only changed our ways of working but also the ways we provide our training. As a result of this, we've introduced our digitally delivered courses.

We deliver our interactive sessions via webinar, and the courses include a mix of facilitator input, group discussion and break-out activities to enable participant interaction and engage staff effectively. We have also started to work with organisations to deliver Covid-safe courses that are entirely fact-to-face. Get in touch today to see how we can work with you on providing learning that works for your teams!