BBB Business Tip: Reopening in the time of COVID-19
Milwaukee, Wis. – Many states across the country are preparing to reopen amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision on whether to reopen your business or not is an individual one and, for some, not a reality at this time. On the other hand, some are ready, and want to know how to do so safely! Guidelines will vary greatly across states and industries, so check with your local representatives for more information on what is allowed or not in your state. In the meantime, BBB has general tips for you to consider as you prepare to reopen and for those who continue to operate under restrictions.
Reopening:
As you take steps to re-open your storefront, first find out if there is any required signage in your state for entrances and exits. Many states are requiring signage at all doors. Plus, having safety signage can help customers and employees feel safer in your establishment.
Its also important to remember that employees may have a hard time returning to work because of their “new normal”. Some may have health conditions that will make them fear the return to work, or they may be responsible for children whose schools are not open. In general, all employees should feel safe enough to want to return. Here are suggestions on how you can help:
- If remote work is an option for some, keep it as an option for the safety of all involved.
- Keep an open mind toward scheduling and accommodations. Daily schedules have radically changed. While some may have more time to be at work, some may have less.
- IF employees are sick, allow them to stay home without pressure to come in.
- Provide employees with as many safeguards as possible – PPE, sanitizing aids, distancing, etc.
- Post safety rules in all areas and allow for social distancing. Follow CDC guidelines.
- Follow new FMLA guidelines for those who may contract COVID-19.
- Offer support and an open ear for your employee’s concerns.
- Create a “whistleblower” system where employees can report violations or health concerns without fear of retaliation.
Working virtually:
You may not feel comfortable returning to “normal operations” yet or you may be functioning just fine from the comfort of your home! Many will not be able to return to a full-time or “normal” schedule at this time. Much of the workforce these days are mobile and or/home-based, so there is no need to feel guilty if you do not feel you can return to the office safely or have your regular company and community gatherings at this time. There are MANY resources available so that you can work – and stay connected – comfortably, efficiently, and safely from your home office.
To stay connected with your staff and clients, definitely consider the following:
- Conference call, meeting, and webinar software. (Don’t forget your virtual meeting etiquette!)
- Also, stay in touch with your clients through email platforms. There are many of these platforms available and they make sending robust or regularly scheduled emails a breeze. You can download sample communications to help with getting started communicating regular COVID-19 related updates.
For your word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation needs:
- Look into cloud-based services that offer these tools. Both Microsoft and Google offer cloud-based services for document processing. This will allow you to take your work with you
Lastly, cybersecurity will be a top concern while working from home:
- BBB has tips for staying cyber secure while working from home.
- You’ll want to implement cybersecurity protocols and policies for your remote employees and yourself. If you haven’t already, installing anti-virus software is a MUST to keep your organization secure.
If needed, consult with a local IT company to help you implement your business or orient your employees’ workspaces to be optimized for home use. You can also consult a local cybersecurity firm to help you with safety and employee training. Check out BBB’s Cybersecurity resources and sample telework policies for assistance! You should also consider creative ways to manage and motivate remote teams.
Financial resources for your business’s reopening:
For more information or further inquiries, contact the Wisconsin BBB at www.bbb.org/wisconsin, 414-847-6000 or 1-800-273-1002. Consumers also can find more information about how to protect themselves from scams by following the Wisconsin BBB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
ABOUT BBB: For more than 100 years, the Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2019, people turned to BBB more than 183 million times for BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.8 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at bbb.org. There are local, independent BBBs across the United States, Canada and Mexico, including BBB Serving Wisconsin which was founded in 1939 and serves the state of Wisconsin.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.
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