Start With Communication

The most important thing during a pandemic like COVID-19 is to communicate with internal and external stakeholders. Ensure calm by reinforcing the facts and letting employees know you are prepared. Be transparent and communicate clearly and frequently.

Plan to Support Remote Work

Working from home will not be optional during a pandemic, and HR needs to be able to support hundreds or thousands of remote workers. Equip managers and employees with information and guidance to set them up for success and address key implementation issues and cultural barriers.

Don't Forget Engagement!

In times of uncertainty, managers play a more important role than ever in employee engagement. Sharing the rationale of decisions made, especially senior leader decisions, will be key. Guide managers to leverage McLean & Company's 3i model: Inform, Interact, Involve, to maintain and improve engagement.