In today's Wundamail Voices, we catch up with the Global Director of Lean Enterprise-Belden Corporation, Stacy Kelley Funkhouser, to find out what she thinks the future of work looks like and how we can integrate government guidelines into our daily working life.
To begin, what do you think the future of work looks like post-crisis?
I believe there will be an increase in permanent teleworking. I also believe that the office will change as far as layout and meeting areas in order to practice social distancing in preparation for other pandemics. The importance of policies and documented standard work will be more important than ever.
How should managers/leaders prepare for the future?
Ensure a clear vision and clear objectives for employees to meet. Establish more audio and video check-ins to take the place of passing in the hall or working together in an office or conference room.
What have you learned from the crisis? How will you be applying these lessons going forward?
I have always been a huge proponent of washing hands to prevent the spread of germs/viruses. I was surprised when the pandemic first appeared that there were so many people that acted surprised by the importance of that. I also have learned how selfish a large number of my fellow Americans are. Wear the mask and show empathy for others. This is not about one person or infringing on anyone's rights, this is about reducing the opportunity for the virus to spread and affect others.
Do you have any tips for kickstarting and managing your team when you return to the office?
Do you have any other wisdom leaders of teams can benefit from?
Engage your team in on-line training for self-awareness and development. Having a knowledgeable workforce will help to keep them engaged, interacting and excited about the opportunities that this pandemic and possible future pandemics have offered us. Focus on what each situation does for you and not to you!
