'Firms need to be flexible, empathetic with staff'

‘Self-love’ may be the wellness industry’s favourite buzzword, but Shriti Malhotra, CEO , The Body Shop India, insists that the company aspires to go beyond merely placing its calling card on Indian dressing tables.With their products falling in the “non-essential goods” category, their stores and offices were shuttered for several months. Lockdown restrictions were then gradually eased and employees began returning to work in a phased manner. Malhotra says she’s been driving to work, to their corporate office in Gurugram since August.Prior to this, a two-week training program was organised, where the staff was told about the WHO guidelines and the new seating arrangements. But despite this, Malhotra says, she had mixed feelings about returning to work. “There was the excitement of seeing your colleagues and feeling the energy that comes from working together. However, the pandemic remains a real concern,” she says.Safety firstTo restore consumer confidence and increase footfalls, the company has come up with a few initiatives. “Social distancing is mandatory, as are face masks. There are compulsory temperature checks and santisation of work benches, instruments and gadgets. There is also increased emphasis on personal hygiene and hand washing,” Malhotra says.Meanwhile, the HR department drew up a new staff roster to ensure that only half the workforce would be in office. “All employees have the option of continuing to work from home, especially those with commuting difficulties, vulnerable family members at home, or with childcare responsibilities,” Malhotra adds.Empathy is keyHaving successfully executed a return to office, Malhotra advises other corporates to prioritise employee health. “Putting people first is key over short-term financial gains... Flexibility is another key element. The challenges of daily life have all become more important due to the present crisis. Empathy and compassion towards colleagues are key to getting through this together,” she adds.77740385

from Economic Times https://bit.ly/326rvPG
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