By Chris Sullivan, Director of Risk Management
Over the past year, we have seen the COVID-19 pandemic radically change the way we all do business. The pandemic has led us to work smarter, become more resilient, and redirect our priorities. Now in 2021, it is time to focus on getting back to business and exploring new opportunities for success.
March 2021, for many of us, represented a somber moment, as we officially marked 12 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Twelve months of confusion, struggle, exhaustion, and for many, fear. The SUNZ team served as witness to it all as we worked to support our clients in some of the hardest-hit industries.
· Healthcare | · Janitorial & Housekeeping | · Retail |
· Transportation | · Tourism | · Hospitality & Culinary |
It cannot be said enough how inspiring it has been to see professionals in these industries rise above in the face of this unprecedented year. The entire team at SUNZ wants to take a moment to specifically salute the work of our extraordinary healthcare, senior living, and medical service clients. It has been our honor to serve and support you during this time. Your passion is an example to us all, and we look forward to our continued partnership in the coming year and beyond.
Now is the time to start thinking about the beyond, to plan for the next step. COVID-19 is not going away; instead, we are learning to prevent it and fight it. That means that the outlook for 2021 is a positive one. We are all ready to get back to full-capacity and limited restrictions.
Take time now to plan out your workforce strategy for the rest of the year and into 2022. Customers and employees have begun to adapt to a world that is increasingly virtual and accessible at their comfort. Ensure your business is appropriately protected in this virtual environment by putting policies into effect for remote work, use of company technology, intellectual property, and appropriate communication.
As businesses once again welcome customers on-site, ensure that your employees understand their responsibilities. We recommend conducting in-service training with your staff on proper hygiene and cleaning protocols. If you require specific safety measures, take time to create training programs for new employees. Remember, it is your responsibility to monitor the constantly changing guidelines for businesses. Plan to regularly check local, state, and federal government operating guidelines plus recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control.
The great news for 2021 is that it is not just business owners who are excited. Employees and customers are eager for communities to open services at full capacity. That excitement is something to capitalize on, especially from your employees. Channel their excitement into creating new work environments and exploring new product options. Excited employees can become dynamic partners for your organization and are more likely to buy-in to any new policy or procedure.
Each new year poses new challenges but remember you do not have to face them alone. SUNZ is proud to serve as your partner in creating a safer business environment. If you have not already done so, take time to look towards your partner organizations, vendors, and contractors. Remember that these organizations must understand any new policies or corporate changes. This is particularly important for individuals who will be visiting your on-site locations. They are responsible to adhere to the same rules as your employees regarding health and safety.
2021 should be a year of innovation and exploration! Customers are looking for companies that are forward-thinking and embracing new ideas. From new service lines and changes in product delivery to unique customer service experiences, customers will gravitate to what is innovative. Do not let the thought of risk stop you from taking big leaps for your customers. The SUNZ team is always available to talk through new ideas and discuss the best way to limit risk while maximizing the potential for success.
We may not have left COVID-19 behind, but we can look forward to a new year of possibility. As always, you can count on SUNZ to be by your side every step of the way, working to create a safer tomorrow.