Coronavirus: what to take into account after holidays (1)

Since the beginning of this year, we have witnessed a change that deeply affects absolutely everything: the virus that has changed the way we live, work and even shop. 

Precisely because of the importance it has had in our lives, from Oleoshop blog we have published  more than one article about it. For example, we have explained how coronavirus has affected eCommerce and consumers themselves. 

During summer and holidays, it seems that everything has been put on hold; but data is there, and it seems that we will continue to have to live with this reality when we return to the routine in September. 

Security, business viability, adaptability to possible changes… there is much to think about. 

We do not want to upset your entrepreneurial break, but maybe it is not a bad time to spend some time thinking about what is coming and organizing new protocols or buying what is necessary to be ready.

Something that can be taken for granted is that workers who have gone on vacation can be a major vector of infection. After all, we all relax, we travel more, we are in contact with other people or even we relax a little more than necessary when we meet with friends and family again. 

To return to activity normally, it is not a bad measure at all to plan two weeks of teleworking before returning to the office and face-to-face meetings. Workers, partners and clients will understand that it is a matter of safety. 

The truth is that it is proven that it is not only feasible, but even more productive in many companies. As eCommerce, we have the advantage of working on and for the Internet, which means that we are more prepared. 

Surely, this is a good time to ask yourself if there is a need to keep an office or bet 100% on a new business model. 

Stop a bit to analyze how this teleworking period during confinement has been, at an operational level (considering all the conditions that we already know well enough). If the result is favorable and people who work with you are ok, why not implement it on a regular basis? 

However, not everything has to be black or white. You can establish a mixed system, working partially from home with specific face-to-face meetings or team work sessions. 

It seems obvious, but when the people who work together do not have guidelines and everything is left to each other's discretion, it is easy for us to end up having certain problems due to differences in interpretation. 

Prepare a short document with very clear points. It includes, for example, the use of common areas, the cases in which a face mask must be worn, how to get to meetings, supplier service management, warehouse protocol, basic disinfection and cleaning protocols … 

In the case of having a physical store, you cannot forget to design the recommendations and obligations that customers must comply with. It is important both for them and for those of you who work in the retail sector. 

It is possible that before leaving you will already leave this partially done, but after holidays you have to take into account that a worsening of coronavirus infections is expected in fall. 

We mean to say that it is advisable to take a look at what you have been doing and the needs that you have to cover. Make sure you have what you need in terms of the new star consumables (gels, masks ...), screens for those who have to face customers, etc. 

You must also guarantee the distance between the workstations of at least 1.5 meters. Redistribute tables and organize the meeting room as well. 

Enable communication channels that are permanently open with your team. In the case of having a positive case, you have to know it as soon as it is confirmed or even suspected. 

The point is not to stigmatize anyone, since no person is safe; but the responsibility we have towards others must be clear. 

If this is the case, you must follow the protocol established by Health Service, isolate yourself and notify all the people who have been close contacts of that worker (colleagues, suppliers ...). 

No need for new tools: simply be accessible through the usual channels (mail, telephone, internal chats ...) and regularly send health information that reinforces the message. 

Coronavirus is not a game, and both companies and entrepreneurs have to assume our responsibility to help minimize risks.