How Did You Cope with the ‘Big Freeze’? |
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The ‘Big Freeze’ has caused serious problems for businesses throughout the UK, largely caused by the difficulties experienced by commuters. Coupled with school closures, the weather has led to absence levels soaring. It is vitally important that organisations now take the time to consider how they fared over the winter and if any lessons can be learned. Can you identify employees who have transferable skills who could be re-deployed to fill a gap due to unexpected staff shortages? Whether it's due to illness, poor travelling conditions or strike action, you can't afford to leave your business exposed when staff are unable to come into work. Do you have effective systems in place to allow employees to work from home? Advances in technology and increased use of home computers means it is worth considering whether employees could work from home for a day or two. This could actually turn out to be a great opportunity to get some paper work or admin out of the way and avoid a wasted day. Are employees and managers able to easily access your most up to date winter weather policy? The policy should cover whether or not staff will be paid if they cannot get into the office, whether they could work from home, and who they should notify if they think they will be unable to attend work. Do front-line managers have the necessary guidance and support to effectively manage staff absences? With the risk of employee absence being higher in colder conditions, do your managers have the support they need to record and follow up on these incidents with employees?
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