In contrast to the dreadful pandemic-adjustment of so many companies, the one I'm working for seems to be doing it right at every level. The core business is risk consulting, which usually involves significant travel, but they shifted quickly to work@home and the top execs are very pleased with how smoothly that transition went and how productive everyone has stayed. Since so many people were outfitted to work on site with clients, that means we're also just as prepared to work from home instead of the homebase office.
I just finished listening to a live-stream meeting with the executive team, and they clearly outlined the steps they're taking to protect everyone's jobs, so for the near-term there won't be any lay-offs. Top execs are taking deep pay cuts; money is being saved on all that travel that isn't happening; conferences, trainings & meetings are being canceled for the remainder of the year; the bonus pot for regular employees will be reviewed at the end of the year when we have a better idea of the economic impact of the pandemic. (Personally, I'm quite willing to cede any bonus to keep everyone on the base payroll.)
Interesting repercussions for society: the executive team is also looking at changing terms for property leases as they come up for renewal. In view of how many people are working comfortably from home, there will be less demand for office space so landlords are going to find themselves at the short end of negotiations. But the team is also looking at how to remodel the office layouts for increased safety considerations. And they're taking another look at travel policies and how to cut back on a more permanent basis.
And in the near future, as various locations are opening up, our company is taking a conservative approach to returning to the office. Their policy for now is "Unless you have overriding reason to return, consider staying at home as the most prudent course of action." And as our clients open up, their policies will be reviewed carefully before allowing our own employees to go to those client offices.
So our company is the model of responsibility to employees and the community. For all my usual cynicism and wariness of corporate greed, I have to say I'm really impressed with their integrity.
www.baltimoresun.com
