In the wake of Hurricane Harvey and the flooding that has engulfed Southeast Texas, many managers may be wondering how to support your employees and get your business back up and running. You can see a few tips below:
- Communication is key. All of your stakeholders (employees, customers, the community, etc.) will need to know what can be expected from your business, so it’s important to communicate with all of them. Possible communication channels include social media, emails, text messages, out-of-office email replies, call trees, and messages on your website.
- Consider everyone’s work/life balance. Because many employees may have to work to rebuild their homes, it may not be possible to accommodate everyone’s time off simultaneously. However, try to think of other options (such as rotating work schedules or working remotely) so that you can help them balance their work and home life effectively.
- Offer support to employees affected by the storm. Listed below are a few links and contact numbers to help them get the help they may need.
Red Cross: 1-800-733-2767 (for emergency food, water, and shelter)
Texas Department of Insurance Consumer Help Line: 1-800-252-3439 (for insurance inquiries)
FEMA Help Line: 1-800-621-3362 (for government assistance) - Keep an eye out for potential help scams. Unfortunately, counterfeit “help” operations will sometimes spring up after a disaster, so be sure to be on the lookout. You can find more information on what to look for here.
- Make a donation towards disaster relief. Some great organizations to support include the Red Cross and the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund.
In times like these, managers must remember to show empathy and care for the employees while keeping the business needs and the customers in mind. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Achilles Group via email.
