How to Minimize Business Disruptions During Summer COVID Wave
Audio version available here (2 min.)
Though interruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have mostly wound down ever since the virus was declared endemic (constantly present but not out of control), a recent summer surge has left some businesses scrambling as their staff stay home to recuperate and prevent spreading the illness. Here’s some ways to prevent this from interrupting your business operations.
1. Communicate With Staff
The first step to preventing an office outbreak of COVID is for anyone who feels unwell with symptoms to inform their colleagues and stay home. Your staff should feel that they can be honest if they are sick and unable to work at their best. Inform them of your business's protocol for when they are ill.
2. Encourage Wellness Practices
Support your staff if they suspect they have COVID by encouraging them to get tested and seek treatment. For those who have not been inoculated against the virus, recommend they get vaccinated or provide resources for staying safe at the office like distancing and masking.
3. Flexibility
If an employee needs to stay home due to testing positive with the virus, but they are still able to be productive, have the means for them to work remotely. Even if it’s just temporary, it’s better for work to continue on a limited basis rather than cease completely.
4. Financial Planning
Even with the best practices of vaccination, masking, and social distancing, COVID can be stubborn and potentially infect a portion of your staff. While working remotely can keep the business from shutting down during an outbreak, production may slow down, especially if your business is not suitable for off-site work. In this instance, it is vital to have cash reserves to make up for revenue shortfalls. You’ll also need to keep a close eye on your business’ current finances so you can make further decisions.
5. Contingency Plans
Before any of this potentially happens, you need to have a plan. Scrambling to set up remote workers when they’re already sick can bring your business operations to a halt. These protocols should already be in place so the transition can be smooth. For further guidance on disaster planning, watch our recent video.
As the US experiences a summer surge of COVID, it is vital to have resources, plans, and financial cushions at the ready in case your business is affected. If your business is not yet prepared, contact XQ CPA's finance experts for the right guidance. We are here for business owners like you.
Phone: 832-295-3353
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