The notion of positivity amongst staff is one which is always integral in the workplace, however it is now more important than ever considering the recent impact of COVID-19. With many businesses facing new challenges of staff working remotely, the traditional methods of boosting morale have also changed. During a time, which is defined by uncertainties, your staff will turn to those in leadership roles for support and direction.

The key to maintaining staff positivity is with open and honest communication, which will in turn establish security and re-assurance amongst staff. It is so important for your staff to feel as though they are supported and can voice their concerns in a judgement free space. Here are some suggested ideas and strategies.

Regular check ins with staff

• Regular – preferably daily check-ins with your staff or team are essential for positivity. A group phone call, or better yet video conference, allows staff members to maintain a sense of normality. Allowing time for a section of the call to be devoted to team well-being, generally before focusing on tasks – allows staff a designated time to discuss any concerns. This is an excellent platform for those in leadership roles to exhibit their support and encouragement.

Keep it light

• Keeping interactions with your staff light will allow staff members to relax. Ice breakers on team calls are a fantastic way to maintain a sense of comradery that many staff members will be missing from the office.

Strong leadership

• The value of strong leadership at this time cannot be stressed enough. Confident decision making from senior staff will enable staff to continue with their work as routinely as possible, as this allows staff to feel the foundations of the business are secure.

Open communication

• Being open and honest with your staff, not only regarding the decisions of the business, but from a personal aspect as well, helps people to understand that they are not alone. It may take only a company or firm wide email detailing your work from home habits – your staff will respond to candid and relatable challenges we are all facing.

Lead by example

• If those in leadership roles can continue to go about their tasks as normally as possible, it sets a standard for their staff. This can be done by establishing and bolstering a ‘work-from-home’ routine and encouraging regular

Do something new or different

• Incorporating new, fun and exciting initiatives into your employees work sphere will help to keep their WFH experience from falling into monotony. It is important to foster the same feelings of teamwork and comradery even when they’re not in the office! Organising themed quizzes and drinks over video conference can help to keep morale high as well as maintaining a fun atmosphere. Alternatively, a team exercise or cooking class, even led by one of your own team members, can be a great way to encourage your staff to keep working from home.

At ESV the wider leadership team has instigated a number of strategies whilst we all work from home, which focus on keeping our staff positive during this Covid-19 era. The strategies have been built around our five culture principles;

• Dare to challenge
• Dog with a bone
• Dot the i’s
• People count
• Go hard / go home

If you’d like to know more about what ESV have been doing, we’re happy to share – just contact the ESV People team on 9283 1666.