COVID FATIGUE IS REAL
Reenergize Yourself and Your Employees With These 6 Strategies
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During the past year, companies have endured unprecedented change. In the paint industry, we have had to shift at an alarming pace to meet our customers' needs and remain ahead of an uncertain economy. But as independents, you were up for the challenge, responding heroically and selflessly to support your employees, customers, and communities! Now, over a year into the pandemic (approaching a post-pandemic world), the adrenaline rush has faded. Many owners and employees are feeling overwhelmed trying to uphold an unsustainable pace between unstable inventory, increasing customer demands, and overwhelmed employees.
It's a given that our lives will never entirely go back to normal, so we need to prepare for the "next" normal.
How can you instill a sense of hope in your employees (and yourself) and reenergize them through change and challenges?
“Whenever there is change, and wherever there is uncertainty, there is opportunity” ~Mark Cuban
EMBRACE THE CHANGE. We all know change is difficult, but it’s true that "with change comes opportunity." Companies that have viewed the pandemic as an opportunity to migrate to digital technologies to enhance their brick-and-mortar store are now outperforming peers. So make sure you are staying ahead of the digital curve. Remember, it won’t replace your brick and mortar but act as an extension of it. We can help!
STAY CONNECTED – Listen to your employees. Create a space for them to speak openly and honestly. Keep a pulse on how they are feeling, hear their needs, and allow them to become part of the solution. After all, people lie at the heart of your success—especially in a local business.
BE OPTIMISTIC AND REALISTIC. Leaders need to operate from a position of optimism, but it's also crucial to understand the realities that the pandemic has left in its wake. Life is different now, and some of us have suffered more than others. Many lost loved ones; some are struggling with mental health issues; others are just plain worn out. So, lead with compassion and authenticity.
OFFER A MENTAL HEALTH DAY. Giving employees a paid day off to unplug will help them reenergize and, more importantly, signal to them that their well-being is an essential part of your organization. Or, if that is not an option, consider providing information on local mental health resources.
RECONNECT WITH YOUR WHY. Asking the question: “who are we?” during challenging times is one of the best ways to bust out of a rut. Examine the values and purpose of your business. Lead a conversation with your employees regarding what values your business holds dear and ask them how you can help them represent that to your customers? When you see how living your values contributes to the organization, you get re-energized.
HAVE SOME FUN! Plan a surprise for your employees; engage in a silly activity together. Why wait for Halloween to dress up? Do something that will add an unexpected joy to the day. Added bonus: your customers will see that you value much more than the cash register as your personality shines through.