It’s important for owners to talk to their staff about the process of returning to work. We are in unprecedented times and being transparent with your staff will be key on getting them onside for the re-opening of your boutique.
With non-essential retail set to open from next week (15th June), many boutiques are preparing risk assessments, finalising cleaning procedures and communicating with customers. It’s important not to forget your staff. They will often be the first point of contact when a bride-to-be walks in, so they are integral to the success of your shop in the coming months.
ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) work with millions of employers and employees to facilitate positive workplace relationships. Here is their advice on how to work with your employees as you open in the new normal.
Employers, employees and workers should talk as early as possible about any plans to return to work.
It’s a good idea to talk about:
Wherever possible, employers should speak to staff before making a decision or putting plans in writing. This can help staff understand, and feel included in, decisions.
If there are any proposed changes that affect the written terms of someone’s contract, the employer must consult with the employee.
If you are implementing changes to employee contracts, ACAS has advice on this here.
There is a real possibility that a member of your workforce will not want to return to work.
This may be because of:
You should encourage staff to talk to you about this and try to find a way to resolve the issue together.
Examples of solutions could include:
If a team member still does not want to return to the shop, you may want to allow the indiviual to take time off as holiday or unpaid leave. It’s important to note that you (the employer) does not have to agree to this.