Uncertainty creates an increased need for care and support

I’ve had many moments over the last few weeks where I am genuinely bewildered at how society responds to new information.

There’s a lot to be said about the messages being circulated by our News and Media outlets, and the validity that people attach to ‘sources of truth’ found on social media. But I’ll leave that rant for another day.

Regardless of your views on the response level or messaging related to the outbreak of coronavirus, employers must remember that many of their team may begin to increase heightened anxiety, worry and stress as the situation evolves.

Uncertainty and unknown drive fear and a scarcity mindset in people. Do what you can to diffuse the uncertainty.

Create stability, create normality. Help people feel educated, remind them of the facts, but don’t over-inform. Promote a culture of respect and inclusion and embody these behaviours.

Focus on transparent communication and reasoning behind business policy and decision making, especially around any key decisions or directives that impact people’s work and potentially their livelihoods. Doing it because everyone else is doing it isn’t enough.

Commit to fostering genuine connection and support if your workforce becomes remote or there is an increase in absenteeism. Educate teams around the power of connecting, checking in, and practice self-care.

Don’t direct them to stockpile supplies. Don’t direct them to cancel their travel plans. Don’t isolate people unnecessarily. Do not add to the fear.

Empower people to make choices that allow them to perform and contribute in an environment that mitigates stress and enables productivity. For some this will be working from home, for others it will be flex schedules, and for many, it will be continuing to come to work in the office because the power of community is an important influence on our mental health and wellbeing.

In the haste to create policy and process, let’s not forget those what is at the centre of it - the people, and ensure they remain top of mind as we navigate the unknown.