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Telework Key to Swine Flu ResponsePARK RIDGE, Ill., May 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Following massive global layoffs, companies with lean workforces could be the hardest hit if the swine flu escalates, forcing business, school, or transportation closures. Social distancing is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of influenza. As the threat of pandemic continues to rise, businesses will be impacted as employees stay home to take care of their children following school closures and as employees themselves present symptoms. "Given that companies are already stretched thin by the recession, extended employee absences won't be sustainable for long," said Kyra Cavanaugh, president of Life Meets Work and flexible workplace consultant. "Companies will have no choice but to look for options." One logical strategy, she says, is telecommuting, which offers the dual benefit of improving employee engagement and productivity while enabling business continuity. On April 29, the Office of Personnel Management announced it's pushing hard to increase the number of federal workers who participate in their telework program. Policy advocates link the move to growing concern over the swine flu. "We saw a real surge in disaster planning following the SARS outbreak in 2003," said Cavanaugh. "Whether the swine flu escalates or not, companies need to investigate telecommuting as part of their comprehensive disaster response plans." Disaster planning is certainly not limited to flu pandemics. Telework tools help maintain productivity in the face of snowstorms, floods and other natural disasters. Setting up a successful telecommuting program involves more than ensuring that everyone has laptops and high-speed Internet access at home. To ensure these systems are functional, businesses should incorporate at least some level of telecommuting into the normal course of business. Beyond the technology, Cavanaugh explains, companies should set expectations, track performance and build in communication systems to keep everyone functioning as a team. "This can be a challenge," she says, "in workplaces where managers are accustomed to 'watching' the work get done. Virtual productivity is about more than remote access to the company's computer system; it's about remote management as well." Life Meets Work (http://www.lifemeetswork.com/) is a workplace consultancy that helps companies improve their bottom line through workplace flexibility and results-focused management. Kyra Cavanaugh, president, is available for background, quotes and additional resources at (847) 207-0608 or [email protected]. Contact: Kyra Cavanaugh 888-462-5691 This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com/. Life Meets Work CONTACT: Kyra Cavanaugh, +1-888-462-5691 Web Site: http://www.lifemeetswork.com/ |