Coping with rapid company policy changes during pandemic

Princess Jeremy S. Bondoc

WE were not prepared when COVID-19 suddenly struck. Companies were at a loss, business shut down, and even the education sector was highly affected in more ways than you can imagine.

Suddenly, we found ourselves under quarantine, prohibited from going out to make a living.

Now, the workplace has a new cultural and behavioral shift, introduced by COVID19.

Work from home arrangements have become the norm, as some companies have gone digital and found themselves adapting to the crisis better.

Though we now use technology now than we have done so in the last few years, this should be used to augment, and not replace, people.

Businesses are now focused on ensuring that their employees are as safe as possible, instituting heath protocols in the workplace. Workers should also be provided financial

A lot of companies have pivoted and made changes. Lucky are those with an online presence, while others have struggled.

So, what does the future look like for us?

We may not be at the digital age, but still, we need to look this. This pandemic has taught all of us lessons in life, and prepare for the “new normal”.

The economy is now in reboot, with the end in view of minimizing threat to human lives. Businesses have restarted operations, while prioritizing the wellbeing of their staff. They also have to deal with the aftermath of the lockdowns and its implications.

Should the staff report to work and maintain social distancing protocols? Not all, and this may impact productivity, costs and employee morale. Maybe they would introduce flexibility into the work schedules, making the big switch into digital.

This global pandemic has changed everything we know to be normal. But this should not stop companies from doing what they can to take care of their workers, the best way they know how.

--oOo-

The author is Administrative Assistant III at Sto. Rosario Elementary School,

Miranda St., Brgy. Sto. Rosario, Angeles City, Pampanga