In order for businesses to succeed during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and this uncertain economic climate, it is more important than ever to focus on employee well-being and overall morale. While it may seem like the time to push productivity, it’s also time to help your team navigate the emotional and psychological challenges they’re currently facing because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Here are five ways business owners can promote wellness and motivate their staff during the coronavirus pandemic. 

1) Stay Calm & Positive

Given the massive amount of uncertainty that surrounds the coronavirus, your employees may be more on-edge than usual. Their feelings will range from anxiety, to fear, to apathy. As a leader, you’ll best serve your team by being a voice of reason and calm. The more you can show up from a place of empathy, respect, and understanding, the more your team will have the ability to calm themselves and focus on their work.

Your employees won’t be working at 100% during this time, but by being a source of stability, you will maximize the productivity that your employees are able to have in this volatile situation.

2) Be Transparent

Don’t leave your employees in the dark about how COVID-19 will impact your business. If you’re planning to make significant changes to strategy, workforce or daily operations, try to be as transparent as possible with your team. Ambiguity will most certainly cause stress and anxiety for your employees, so help reduce the uncertainty by being open and honest with your team.

3) Create Flexible Workplace Policies

Try to be as accommodating as possible when it comes to working arrangements. With so many schools closing across the country, parents may have no choice but to stay home with their children. If possible, try to find a way for your employees to get their work done remotely.  Working remote during Coronavirus allows you to practice social distancing and gives your employees more flexibility. Tools like video conferencing or office chat can help manage the remote work setup and encourage consistent communication.

If working remotely isn’t possible for your small business, there are still ways to accommodate your employees at work. Consider flexible working hours or staggered shifts.

4) Focus on Safety

Let your employees know that you care about their safety during the Coronavirus outbreak. Take the required safety precautions and make sure your workplace is in compliance with state and federal guidelines.

If your business is still operating on-site, make sure you have hand sanitizer, soap, gloves, and masks available for your employees. Whenever possible, make accommodations for social distancing in the workplace.

5) Find Ways to Show You Care

The coronavirus pandemic has many people feeling stressed and fearful. It’s a good time to show your employees that you care about them and their wellbeing. Continue to check in with your team to see how they are doing and ask how you can help.

Little gestures can go a long way, too. Consider buying lunch for the team, sending care packages or even making special accommodation for employees who are also caregivers.

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For information and guidelines specific to the coronavirus outbreak, visit cdc.gov

This article is for general information and should not be relied on as medical advice. Check with a medical professional for medical advice.