Staying Connected with Employees During COVID Pandemic

From the Insurance Journal, August 2020:

Employee morale affects a business’ success. There is so much happening outside of our control right now, which will lead to frustration, disconnection, and low morale. But the lack of staff morale affects companies in more ways than expected.  Overtly stressed and anxious employees result in poorer quality of work as well as disengaged employees.  At times, it can even lead to higher turnover rate, which will be detrimental to organizations.

During these stressful and uncertain times, it is extremely important as leaders of insurance firms to address employees’ concerns and be the beacon of hope and positivity for employees.  Employees want to feel that their managers listen to their needs and concerns.

This is the time when owners and managers can step up and be the leader that employees need.

Here are some measures that our Assurex Global Partners are taking to help keep employees engaged:

• Making sure the communication is good between all parties and always transparent. There are plenty of ways for remote workers to keep in touch with management, fellow employees, and clients. It is important to always provide specific information and clear instructions. This will make virtual meetings more effective.

• Helping any employee with their immediate needs and concerns. Offer counseling or exercise classes to staff that might be suffering from anxiety or stress-related issues. If possible, set up virtual team lunches or happy hours to let people blow off steam and bond. People want to know that management is in their corner, and that everybody is in it together.

Thank and praise employees (and yourself) for what they are doing for the firm under such difficult times. Let them know that they are not alone, and things will eventually get better.  Humans are social creatures. It is important that we band together and leverage the available resources we have to stay connected.

Julie Loney
SVP, Education
Assurex Global