by Kara McCord, M.A. IO Psychology
Work (and life) as we knew it came to a screeching halt due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The federal government is passing massive legislation to offer aid to Americans at a record-breaking pace, the economy is more volatile than ever, and organizations are changing in the form of remote work or furloughing their workforces.
As a leader in an organization, you know (because you’re experiencing it too) that everyone has a lot going on, personally and professionally. How do you make sense of it all – the struggles your teams are facing while working remotely, support needs while someone is sick or caring for someone who is, and being transparent about the changes that occur daily in the organization. A survey, maybe? Who would want to be bothered by one of those right now?
Actually, there’s never been a more important time to pause and listen to your workforce. The very same reason you’re second-guessing sending out a survey is exactly why now is the time to do it. Employees are feeling alone, isolated, fearful, and anxious about the world and work, which is why it’s the exact right time to open the lines of communication.
40% of employees report their organization hasn’t solicited feedback regarding the response to Covid-19.
“Objectively knowing where your employees’ mindset is today, will help inform what actions your organization needs and can take to help leaders and employees thrive through this moment of adversity”, according to Chris Powell, CEO at Talmetrix.
Consider the alternative: stay silent. According to SHRM, 27% of American workers had indicated their organizations had yet to communicate how the organization was reacting to Covid-19. Staying silent does nothing but perpetuate feelings of anxiety and fear. Now is when your organization should offer support, be mindful, and communicative about what is going on in our world. It can start with a survey.
Almost a third of employees are either not optimistic or are unsure if their organization can overcome the current circumstances regarding the pandemic.
“Now is the time to quickly revamp your survey from focusing on assessing processes and procedures (I understand the performance review process) to one focusing on compassion and caring (I feel connected to the people I work with). Doing so during this time sends a strong signal that you care and are there for your employees.”, David Youssefnia, Ph.D., organizational psychologist and advisor focused on the future of work.
Granted, a survey can seem impersonal or canned, but that’s why Talmetrix is your elevating partner. We can help you craft a message around why now, more than ever, is the time for feedback. Feedback surveys aren’t a promise to solve all the world’s problems, but a promise to listen, be heard, and start a dialogue. The more you know, the more you can help your organization stay productive, endure, and renew stronger than ever.