Four-step guideline announced for returning employees post-pandemic
A researcher at the University of Louisville has established a four-step process outlining key leadership considerations for offices preparing to reopen.
Associate Professor Brad Shuck, creator of “RISE Reintegration Model”, believes a range of industries can benefit from his four-step plan to reintegrate employees back to a physical workplace as coronavirus restrictions are lifted.
The RISE model is based on the following four “Rs”: Reset, Restart, Recalibrate and Reinvent.
The Reset phase should ideally start two to three months prior to reintroducing employees back into the workspace. Operations may need to change from how they worked before the shutdown. Elements to consider include COVID-19 safety guidelines still in place, changes in technology use, and employee adjustment to working in a centralized location again.
“Restart” takes place during the first couple of months following the return to in-person work. According to Shuck, companies during this phase should emphasise short-term goals, assuage any difficulties employees have in reacclimating to their work environment, and foster a sense of momentum. Customized corporate gifts can help promote the organization and add to a harmonious workplace.
Two to four months following a company’s reopening, “Recalibration” should start. This is where businesses readjust their business strategy to accommodate changes brought about by the pandemic.
Lastly, “Reinvent” involves integrating lessons learned from the pandemic into the business’ operations. This should start four to eight months after employees return and then be revisited every six months for the next three years.
Associate Professor Brad Shuck, creator of “RISE Reintegration Model”, believes a range of industries can benefit from his four-step plan to reintegrate employees back to a physical workplace as coronavirus restrictions are lifted.
The RISE model is based on the following four “Rs”: Reset, Restart, Recalibrate and Reinvent.
The Reset phase should ideally start two to three months prior to reintroducing employees back into the workspace. Operations may need to change from how they worked before the shutdown. Elements to consider include COVID-19 safety guidelines still in place, changes in technology use, and employee adjustment to working in a centralized location again.
“Restart” takes place during the first couple of months following the return to in-person work. According to Shuck, companies during this phase should emphasise short-term goals, assuage any difficulties employees have in reacclimating to their work environment, and foster a sense of momentum. Customized corporate gifts can help promote the organization and add to a harmonious workplace.
Two to four months following a company’s reopening, “Recalibration” should start. This is where businesses readjust their business strategy to accommodate changes brought about by the pandemic.
Lastly, “Reinvent” involves integrating lessons learned from the pandemic into the business’ operations. This should start four to eight months after employees return and then be revisited every six months for the next three years.