Top tips to help employees get through Lockdown

As lockdown and home-schooling continues to impact working families around the UK, it is important that employers provide extra support and care for those affected, after nearly a year of remote working.

The success of any team is everyone’s responsibility. But as a manager, it’s important to assist teams through difficult times. As a nation we have had to adapt from traditional workplaces to remote working, employers are legally and morally responsible for every aspect of their employee’s wellbeing whether that be physical, mental or financial.

When a manager knows someone is struggling there are many challenges your employees could be facing, and understanding how to handle them before they impact your employee’s work and wellbeing.

Feeling Isolated

· Communication is key: Encourage employees to set up virtual check-ins with both work people and also family and friends.

· If feasible and appropriate, encourage employees to meet up with a colleague who lives close by and schedule some exercise. A walk a couple of days a week with company will really be beneficial both physically and mentally.

· Talk to them about it. Getting the feeling “off your chest” this will help them acknowledge the way they are feeling.

Feeling Depressed

· If someone tells you they are depressed, they need professional advice. Tell them to see their GP as soon as possible.

· If your business provides an Employee Assistance Program, ensure they use that. There are also free resources that offer counselling and advice.

Feeling Demotivated

At this time of year a lot of people suffer from lack of motivation. It is really important to acknowledge to yourself and your team that it is okay.

· Look to where you can inspire motivation: Is it from reviewing your company’s overall 2021 goals, and starting to set their goals to get their head back in the game?

· Structure days to tackle projects and meetings.

· Encourage people to be vulnerable and talk to you about it. Be ready to provide some projects to get them motivated again, as well as some good advice.

Finance problems due to reduced hours or furlough

· Make sure your team knows how to get advice where needed – managing finances can be a challenge!

· Don’t panic: remind them that the economy will pick-up and they will get back on top of their finances.

Homeworking and managing kids

Make sure you know if your employees are managing the complexity of both learning at home for your children and your work.

· Help them set boundaries for their children with practical advice:

· For example: if you are in an important meeting, have a sign on your door, or the back of your computer monitor that is Do Not Disturb. Make sure your kids understand the rules.

· Try to plan your kids’ days in time blocks for school subjects and for breaks. They get breaks at school, so make sure you factor this into their day.

· Get creative: With the colder weather it is hard to get outside. Perhaps try some indoor craft projects to get their brains into a different frame of mind.

· Be kind. Remind them that as a company you understand the current challenging circumstances and are there to support them.

Booking Holidays

Some tough love may be in order here, we are in a global crisis. Giving up overseas holidays should be the least of anyone’s concerns and encourage mini-breaks among your employees: You do still need to factor in breaks from work, even if it is a staycation.