Considering what 2020 brought us, you could be forgiven for not setting any goals for 2021. However, especially if you’re a business owner, it’s definitely time to set your sights on what you want to achieve. While we’ve already published guidance on how to achieve personal goals, your professional life is just as important, especially when tricky topics such as when and how to return to the physical office are on the agenda.
There’s no denying that the pandemic has transformed many businesses and their priorities. Whether it’s introducing remote working options overnight or pivoting whole business models, fast adaptation has been key to surviving 2020. However, as vaccinations roll out globally, there’s still decisions to be made on how you’d like your workplace to look in 2021.
Some things to take into account now when planning include:
Treat each employee as an individual
Every employee will have had a different experience of lockdown, and you’ll need to remember this as your office re-opens. You may have already rolled out flexible or remote working options, but have you paid attention to feedback?
An important factor you may want to consider as we move into 2021 is enforcement versus choice. Your employees are all individuals and what works for one may not work for another. Giving them options rather than instructions may be better in the long run. Keep asking for feedback regularly and adjust where needed.
Continue COVID safety measures if you need to
Whether you need to have your employees come into the premises or are aiming to have them return in 2021, it’s important they feel safe. You may want to continue your COVID-safe cleaning procedures next year, as well as providing masks or wipes for employees. This could also be a good opportunity to check your ventilation systems and test and clean specialist equipment.
Use this as an opportunity to make bigger changes
If you made changes due to the pandemic, you may be itching to get back to normal in the new year. However, why not use this time to make bigger changes to your business? For example, you may want to explore ways to make your office more eco-friendly. Whether it’s reviewing your suppliers and switching to greener options, assessing your water usage or even just getting more plants, there’s plenty of easy options to get more green.
Find new and improved ways to go digital
Did lockdown force you to test-drive ways to convert your business to a more digital model? You may want to continue down the same path in the next year. Consider whether you can enhance your digital offering to give you an edge over your competitors. Some options include installing higher-speed WiFi at your workplace and purchasing remote-working software. You can also train your staff on social media to help promote your company, or even allow employees to work in different time zones.
Prioritise wellbeing in your workplace
Whatever direction you’d like to move your business towards in 2021, a final point to note is that you should never underestimate the importance of workplace culture. The way you reacted to the crisis will directly affect and influence how your employees behave. Ensure you communicate openly and transparently with your staff. Showcase as much positivity and hope as you can. By putting your employees in the forefront of your planning, you’ll have more motivated workers that will help make your job easier.
