All across the country, states are announcing and executing plans for reopening their economies in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Of course, the pace of these plans and the stages involved are different depending upon the industries in which a business operates.

However, there are some things that have proven to be consistent across the board in terms of protocol for reopening. They include the following:

• Proper social distancing practices for both employees and customers
• The wearing of face masks, gloves, and other protective gear for employees
• The strong suggestion that customers also wear masks if they’re visiting a place of business
• The strong suggestion that if a business can still operate with employees working remotely, then it should continue to do so

To be sure, individual plans vary from state to state, both in terms of timing and specifics. It’s an understatement to say that all employers want to ensure as smooth a transition as possible during this critical phase of the pandemic.

Below are three keys for accomplishing a smoother transition:

#1—Communication

Miscommunication can happen during the best of times. During times like these, the risks are even greater, and the stakes are higher, as well.

If employees do not have the proper information, then they begin to assume the worst. Employers should double-down on their efforts to communicate information frequently and through the proper channels.

#2—Transparency

It’s not just about frequent communication, either. Employers must also communicate the right information.

In other words, the information that workers want to hear. Specifically, they want to know what decisions have been made, but they also want to know the rationale behind those decisions and how those decisions affect them, both in the short term and in the long run.

#3—Expectations

This is something that companies and organizations must absolutely communicate to their employees. And remember: it’s a two-way street.

We’re talking about what the organization is expecting from its employees, and conversely, what the workers can expect from their employer. To treat the situation as a one-way street is to risk the chance of eroding trust with employees.

With as much turbulence and chaos as the pandemic has already caused, the future looks just as uncertain today as it did when the pandemic started. That’s why it’s critical for employers to do what is necessary to ensure a smooth transition as states and businesses reopen in the weeks ahead.

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