With an estimated 38 million people unemployed in the US alone as of May, there is growing fear of a global recession. As a result, many businesses have reverted to a default survival mode where they are focusing on just tactical work and adjusting to staff working from home, rather than adapting to solve newer and bigger problems emanating from the crisis.

However, some businesses are rising above the turmoil to increase productivity, win market share, increase customer loyalty, and even streamline their processes. We talk to two Dubai-based human resources experts to find out how.

Set Work from Home (WFH) rules

At the start, Agni Skafidas, a Dubai-based human resource expert, advises identifying roles that can be performed remotely. “Work from home requires some ground rules. During this lockdown, many companies have been surprised by the number of roles that can be carried out distantly,” she says. “There needs to be a discussion on expectation and deliverables between the line manager and the employee,” she adds.

She also recommends facilitating employees through IT support to maintain productivity whilst encouraging workers to create a work-from-home space, where they can focus on their projects. “Of course, businesses should support employees with the basic tools they need, like laptops, chargers, software, applications, access rights and connectivity. Workers themselves can create a more productive environment with a dedicated, quiet workplace, if possible,” she says.

Hassan Aljuaidi agrees. As an experienced HR consulting expert, he admits that working from home presents several challenges for both employers and employees.

“Some businesses are working almost full hours, depending on the industry and line of work, while others are on half speed or below, especially if they are more of a client-facing business,” he says. “A company must have clear guidelines about WFH policies to ensure that everyone’s needs are addressed,” he adds.

Hassan also believes that third-party licenses and cloud-coordination applications, like Slack and Trello, and regular meetings over Zoom video calls for team collaboration are critical at this time.

Additionally, both Hassan and Agni stress the importance of a designated workspace at home to help create a productive WFH environment.

Establish communication protocols

Whilst keeping in touch on projects is important, both Agni and Hassan agree that protocols need to be established.

“At this time, reports are essential, not only to track employees’ work, but also to track project progress. Insightful communication is also needed to understand the points where a team member may need extra professional or personal support,” says Hassan.

He adds that scheduling a daily morning meeting with a small team working on a project may be more productive than repeat calls and texts. Equally he feels that teams collaborating less frequently need to communicating every second day or even weekly should suffice.

Agni agrees, “Communicating with your team to share information, motivate and voice concerns is as important as asking for support and help.” She suggests scheduled check ins with employees, whilst keeping personal lines of communication open in case more support is needed.

Engage socially

Agni realises the office is an important social meeting point for most people.

“Working from home may feel isolating for some,” she says. Additionally, Agni notes, “Organising virtual team events where no work topics are discussed strengthens the team bond and keeps the team engaged.”

Hassan adds that employees meet, whilst observing distancing guidelines of course, for a company tea/coffee after Ramadan. “Meeting to chat and talk about anything, work or otherwise, should be a good stress releaser. Think of it as the time you take to prepare a cup of coffee in the office or walk down the lobby to chit chat with a colleague,” he adds.

Both Agni and Hassan understand that everyone is adjusting to WFH differently. “Any WFH policy needs to show fairness for all employees. Companies need to be flexible to recognise individual needs and offer personalised solutions. They also need to outline additional support to employees, as one size does not fit all,” says Agni.

She notes that companies need to do more. “They need to recognise team members in real time, whether it’s for changing and improving a process, demonstrating outstanding customer service or completing a personal training course. You need to celebrate and appreciate your employees,” she says.

Keep morale high

For employees coming out of quarantine or lockdown, it is important for companies to provide assurances and support.

“Deciding who returns to the workplace must be in accordance with government regulations,” says Agni. “In line with the company’s WFH policy, employers need to be fair in deciding who needs to go to the office. Special consideration should be given to those falling into the high-risk category, and individuals should be given a say if they are ready to head back,” she clarifies.

Hassan adds that additional protective gear and cleaning has to be arranged. “Any company reopening its doors needs to review how they can meet safety mandates to protect their teams before determining who should return. Employees need to feel safe and confident returning to office,” he adds.

“This is the time when a company can truly show that they care about their employees and their wellbeing. Continuous communication with the team is vital to understanding challenges and keeping morale up,” Agni concurs.

Whether you’re starting a gradual return to office or still working remotely, good support and communication processes can increase employee productivity. Avail the experience of our certified business coaches for advice on business and marketing consulting and communication.