‘As employers and employees navigate and negotiate whatever comes next, they do so on a surprisingly strong foundation of respect and trust’
Employers have done well in building strong relationships with their workers amid the pandemic, judging by a recent survey.
A majority of Canadian (77 per cent) and American (83 per cent) workers say their employer has managed the COVID-19 crisis well, and many say they are satisfied with their employers (72 per cent and 80 per cent, respectively), according to a survey by PR agency Argyle.
“Whether you’re confronting the complexities of a virtual workplace or the stressful safety protocols of a physical one, the pandemic has turned the working world upside down. As employers and employees navigate and negotiate whatever comes next, they do so on a surprisingly strong foundation of respect and trust,” says Daniel Tisch, Argyle CEO.
Many Canadian workers also say that their employer takes care of them (71 per cent), that they trust their employer (70 per cent) and that they believe their employer is committed to meeting their expectations (65 per cent). However, American workers are more satisfied in these subjects (77 per cent, 76 per cent and 70 per cent for these issues, respectively).
The remote work setup forced upon people by the COVID-19 pandemic has led to feelings of isolation and alienation among workers, according to a separate survey.
Employee engagement
However, less than half (44 per cent) of Canadian respondents believe they can influence the decisions or directions of their employer, compared to 54 per cent of American respondents.
“The weakest finding for employers is also their greatest opportunity: engaging employees about the future — and giving them some visible influence on the decisions you make today,” says Tisch. “While higher turnover is inevitable after such as stressful year, those who invest in these essential relationships will inevitably be better positioned for renewed growth.”
Workers are becoming more reluctant to speak up to their colleagues and managers about significant subjects relating to work, according to a previous report.
There are several ways that employers can build better relationships with employees, according to Vantage Circle, an employee benefits platform:
- Always be honest with employees and never twist your words.
- Merge the gap with communication.
- Appreciate employees.
- Be friendly to employees.
- Respect employees.
- Implement autonomy.
- Value employees.
- Keep a learning attitude to help employees feel more comfortable while giving their point of view.
