Prioritizing COVID-19 well-being has become a central focus for entrepreneurs as states and cities enter new phases of reopening. While the COVID-19 pandemic continues across the country, some states and cities are entering what is known as “Phase 2” and “Phase 3” of reopening. These phases allow select non-essential businesses to start making sales directly to in-person customers.
Since we are not in the clear yet, and certain states are still seeing spikes, what can businesses of every size do to protect themselves, their employees, and their customers to ensure long-term success?
5 Essential Steps for COVID-19 Well-Being
To maintain a healthy workplace during these reopening phases, business owners should implement these 5 specific strategies:
- Strict Mask Protocols: Require all staff and visitors to wear masks while on the premises to minimize respiratory risks.
- Strategic Foot-Traffic Mapping: Designate clear paths for customers and employees to take to ensure safe proximities and minimize contact.
- Enhanced Ventilation: Improve air quality by using HEPA air purifiers or increasing outdoor air intake within your facility.
- Digital-First Operations: Maintain online versions of your business to drive sales while accommodating customers who are still self-isolating.
- Transparent Communication: Conduct regular check-ins to address employee anxiety and share fact-based health guidance.
Follow Experts Who Deal in Facts
COVID-19 is a very real threat. When health experts offer guidance for social distancing and wearing masks, those guidelines should be heeded. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), consistent use of masks and maintaining physical distance are among the most effective ways to prevent the spread of the virus. For businesses that see cash transactions, employees should wear gloves as well. The last thing a business needs is to have employees or customers getting sick from not following enforced guidelines, because that can drop productivity and lower your reputation with the community.
Following these expert-led protocols ensures that your business remains a safe haven. This proactive approach to COVID-19 well-being shows employees you are invested in their long-term health and directly prevents costly operational shutdowns.
Investing in Long-Term Safety Infrastructure
Beyond immediate PPE requirements, focusing on COVID-19 well-being involves looking at the physical environment of your workspace. High-traffic businesses should consider installing plexiglass shields at point-of-sale locations and implementing touchless payment systems to further reduce physical contact between staff and the public.
These infrastructure upgrades do more than just prevent the spread of illness; they signal to your customer base that you are a leader in safety and professional standards. By prioritizing these structural changes, you build a resilient business model that is prepared for any future health challenges, ensuring that your operations remain profitable and your community remains protected during every phase of the recovery process.
Maintain Online Operations
Just because areas are entering new phases of reopening does not mean customers are relaxing their protective measures. This means that maintaining an e-commerce or digital version of your business can drive sales while minimizing health risks.
The shift to digital is not just a temporary fix; it is a teamwork-driven approach to business success that allows your staff to collaborate safely. By keeping your digital consultation channels open, you provide a “safety valve” for your revenue, ensuring resilience even if reopening phases are rolled back.
Communication is the Key
Business owners need to be observant of their day-to-day operations and address the concerns of both employees and customers. Right now, businesses need to put in the extra work to stay on top of the facts offered by experts and convey that information clearly.
By communicating guidance and making actionable plans, businesses can build strong relationships with their communities. Finally, remember that COVID-19 well-being includes mental health. Transparent communication helps reduce the anxiety that employees feel. This transparency is what separates successful businesses from those that struggle to retain staff during uncertain times.
