When You're Short Staffed: A Brief Business Owner's Guide

A man wearing a white shirt and black apron pours champagne into rows of glasses on a restaurant counter

Millions of American business owners have heard this refrain over the past two years: "I tested positive for COVID, so I can't come to work today." With so many workers out sick while the workload piles up, business owners, managers, and other employees are burning out as they cover for those who are ill. Nearly three-quarters of packing companies reported more employee absences since the start of the pandemic. If you're having problems with staff shortages at your small business, you may find it useful to create an employee handbook if you don't already have one or update your current handbook to reflect the stressful circumstances of dealing with COVID-19. Your small business attorney through our Small Business Legal Protection Plans can help you go over your handbook to make sure that all your guidelines are legal and enforceable. In the meantime, here are a few tips for dealing with staffing shortfalls:

Help Your Staff

Some business owners are very “hands off” regarding the day-to-day operations of their businesses, but these trying times may mean that it's time to pitch in. This will show employees that you care, that you don't want them to be overworked, and that it's important that the business stays running to a certain set of standards while others are out sick.

Prioritize

If you have several employees out sick, it may be time to prioritize tasks to make sure that what absolutely must be done gets done while less important tasks are put aside for later, when you have a full staff. Make a list of tasks and decide which are the most important and which ones can wait a little bit. Make sure your team members and employees are in the loop and check off the priorities list together.

Simplify

Look into if there is technology that can lessen workers' workloads or if some processes can be automated. Ask your employees if they have any ideas for how work can be streamlined.

Hire More People

It's not always possible, but if you can, hire more employees, temporary work staff, or contractors to pick up the slack. Depending on your industry, you may be able to outsource some work to freelancers until your full-time staff can safely return to work.

Ask Employees for Input and Ideas

This not only has the benefit of finding solutions from the people who do the work every day, but it lets your staff know that you're listening and know they're struggling.

Show Your Appreciation To Present Employees

Make sure that those employees who are working every day and picking up the slack know that you appreciate them. A bonus in their paycheck is a great way to show how much you appreciate their effort.

Let Your Customers Know

Most customers will understand that you're dealing with a stressful situation when your staff is out sick. Put up some signage asking for patience and don't let unruly customers bully your staff.

If you have questions about employee rights and employer rights during the pandemic, don't hesitate to talk to your small business attorney through our Small Business Legal protection Plans. Your small business lawyer will be able to help you understand your rights and responsibilities to your employees, what your employees' rights are, and possibly help you find solutions. Learn more about all the benefits of our Small Business Legal Protection Plans or sign up now!