The Weekly Exchange: Session 11

Jun 11, 2020

Strategies and Concerns for Eventually Shifting from Remote to In-Person Work

The Weekly Exchange: Session 11
Topic: Strategies and Concerns for Eventually Shifting from Remote to In-Person Work
Facilitators: Jennifer Lowe, Vice President of Shared Learning & Member Networks & Ginger Haggerty, Senior Associate

What considerations are organizations making in a safe transition back – for both staff and participants?

Logistics of keeping the space safe

  • Note: Follow local guidelines from public health officials
  • Limiting the number of people in the office at a time
    • Alternate days, discourage going into the office unless it is essential
    • Be strategic about when people go into the office and length of time
  • Protective equipment (masks, gloves) and disinfectants (touchless soap/sanitizer dispensers, wipes)
  • Temperature checks before entering building
  • Think through meeting spaces
    • In a conference room or outside instead of smaller spaces
  • Tape marking six feet distances in shared spaces

Concerns

  • Childcare gaps (day cares and summer programs not open)
  • Public transportation
  • Compromised health conditions
  • Stress and well-being
  • Managing and respecting personal physical boundaries
  • Participants and staff are experiencing Zoom fatigue
    • Need to be creative about engagement

For organizations who have already transitioned back, what are some lessons learned?

  • Transparency and over-communication of safe transition plans
  • Have wipes and sanitizer available everywhere
  • Have different departments work a few days a week in the office to help keep capacity down

How will this experience impact the future of work at your organization?

  • Hybrid of telework and onsite work
  • Provide participants the option to apply for services remotely
  • Streamline work processes

Referenced Resources: