As businesses figure out how to successfully operate during a global pandemic, it's been a struggle for some companies to retain and protect their employees. Companies still need employees, but it may be hard for employees to return to work if they are at high-exposure jobs or don't have job flexibility if they end up sick. In today's Aegis blog post, we discuss some ways businesses can help protect and retain valuable employees.

Offer Employees Telecommuting Options

One of the ways companies can help keep valuable employees is by offering them telecommuting jobs whenever possible. This can help employees stay healthy while also keeping their jobs and maintaining productivity. When employees know they have more flexible options and are valued by their company, they are more likely to stay onboard and contribute even more.

Consider Changing Operating Hours or Shifts

For jobs in the retail or restaurant industry where telecommuting isn't possible, owners can still protect employees by adjusting operating hours or shifts so employees aren't commuting during the busiest parts of the morning or evening. By offering shifts that start and end at off peak hours, employees that rely on the bus or light rail can be on less crowded mass transit and can reduce their exposure to Covid-19.

Implement Daily Health Checks

Additionally, companies can protect the health of their employees by implementing daily health screenings such as temperature checks. In addition, they can check with employees to ensure no one reports to work with coughing, fatigue, or other potential Covid-19 symptoms. These simple steps can ensure that workers who are healthy remain that way, and that sick employees stay home and recover.

Improve or Increase Sick Leave Options

Finally, companies can go a long way in retaining their workers by expanding or improving employee sick leave options. For example, companies can increase the number of paid sick leave days, or change vacation and sick days to flex days that can be used for either one. Employees that know they won't lose their jobs or pay simply for being ill are far more likely to remain with their company and not leave for another job.

Employees are the heart of any company, so retaining and protecting your staff should be a top priority for your business in light of Covid-19. Aegis Insurance & Financial Services can also help protect your business and employees through our full range of Commercial Insurance policies, including General Liability, Workers Compensation, Excess Liability Coverage, and Commercial Property coverage. Contact our Aegis office at 713-850-7622 for more information, or fill out our online form to request a free quote!