10 pandemic-related challenges likely to plague employers in the future

It is crucial for employers to put solid processes in place for addressing the challenges of return-to-work. (Photo: Shutterstock)

While employees and employers alike have been eager (for months now) to get back to work as it used to be, the reality is that the workplace has changed — and possibly for the long term. Speculation abounds that this “new normal” will persist until there is a widely available and effective vaccine. This leaves employers in limbo — juggling the new day-to-day legal concerns and practical difficulties, such as enforcing proper social distancing and addressing refusals to return to work, while trying to maintain productivity and profitability to keep businesses afloat.

Advance planning for how to face potential challenges (some of which are described below) before they arise will allow companies to react thoughtfully, rather than impulsively, and provide the tools to remain vigilant and flexible.