Unemployment compensation, virus exposure discourage workers from returning, employers say

Dive Brief:

Some employers that have begun recalling workers said they’re "seeing considerable … cooperation," according to survey results from law firm Dykema released May 12.
That was the most common experience among the 124 clients and non-clients that responded to the firm’s survey, accounting for nearly a third of the responses. But close behind, 28% said they’re experiencing resistance due to a desire to continue to receive unemployment compensation and 26% said workers are hesitant because they’re afraid of SARS-CoV-2 exposure.
The employers, most of whom have between 51 and 500 employees, also answered questions about their plans to reopen. Fifty-eight percent said they were still at least a month away from reopening; 21% said they plan to resume operations quickly, with the same amount saying they’ll wait until the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidelines are met.

Dive Insight:

As employers plan for reopening, many say they’ll generally look to state and local authorities for guidance, according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas survey results released April 20. Only 13% of respondents said they’d follow the federal government’s lead when it comes to timing.

As far as safety precautions are concerned, however, employers may find helpful direction from the CDC, which has offered a flowchart outlining steps for employers that are reopening. Among other things, the federal agency suggested that employers be prepared to protect employees at a higher risk for severe illness; promote certain hygiene practices; develop a cleaning plan and implement procedures for checking symptoms.

While such steps may prove critical for business continuity, employment experts say these efforts also convey an important message to workers. Workforce resilience and an upholding of company values will be crucial in the coming months, according to EY. "Organizations will need to completely reimagine their business model and transform, if they are to thrive in a post-COVID-19 world," Mike Bertolino, EY global people advisory services leader, said in a recent statement.

Clear and honest communication will be key, too, experts previously told HR Dive. Recall notices can detail an employer’s efforts to keep workers safe, and ensure that all parties are in agreement regarding hours, compensation and benefits.