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April 29, 2020 at 07:45 PM
(Photo: Shutterstock)
In light of the nationwide COVID-19 quarantine, our social norms have been rocked to the core. Business norms, operations and interactions have dramatically changed, too.
We’re in a digital environment in which live by the oxymoron of “together, apart.”
While the long-lasting national implications of the coronavirus are not yet fully known, you get to decide what the outcome of this time will be for you and your team. Your main concern as a leader should be about protecting your most important asset: your people.
Today’s Challenge
Protecting people right now means helping them find a work/life balance when they no longer have their normal work routines. The lines have been blurred like never before for many people, and it’s not easy to adjust.
How you choose to define “normal” will define the future health of your advisory firm.
As work life and home life have converged, new responsibilities have emerged, as well. In addition to being a client service rep or an advisor, a firm’s employees are now school teachers and caretakers.
Because of this convergence, we have to redefine what is work and what is home.
Home is no longer about relaxation, but then again, it never was. We always have had to clean, do home maintenance, pay bills, and take care of the home environment.
Similarly, the work environment has always had its share of “extra” concerns too; many employees might take time to volunteer for a nonprofit on behalf of the company. It wasn’t necessarily work, but it was attached to the job. Being at work also included social interactions that many are no longer getting at home.
Everything has been turned on its head, and people are stretched. As a leader it’s important for you to take time to encourage the individuals on your team to take steps to define their new reality.
New Normal
Many individuals are looking for normal. The first step in defining normal right now is to be honest. Be honest with yourself, your team, and your family.
Life is now different; embrace the change instead of fighting it and try to develop new routines that can replace your old routines.
If life is too overloaded to create a true routine, at least strive for a routine within your team so you are working toward something that is defined and repeatable.
Here are three places to exam, work on and share with your team:
1. Start at Home
