COVID-19 seriously impacted the business world. Many companies struggled to maintain operations, and some had little choice but to shut down, at least for a period.
As time passed, a degree of homeostasis was achieved by many companies. Those that were able to adapt – by embracing remote work arrangements or adjusting their workplaces to meet new coronavirus-related safety requirements – often began to recover.
While some may have assumed that the various changes would be short-term, that isn’t necessarily the case. Many Mississippi workplaces will be affected long-term, potentially for years to come, if not permanently.
By understanding how Mississippi workplaces are changing, you can keep pace with the competition. If you aren’t sure where to begin, here are some tips that can help you stay ahead of the curve.
How Mississippi Workplaces are Changing in 2021
New Programs to Boost Mississippi Communities
In response to COVID-19, the ReSkill Mississippi (ReSkillMS) initiative was launched. While it was designed to benefit those who suddenly found themselves unemployed, the program also positively impacted forward-thinking companies.
If a business is open to hiring an unemployed Mississippian and offer them on-the-job training to reskill them, employers can receive wage reimbursements of up to 75 percent of the worker’s salary during the training period. As long as the position pays at least $15 per hour, it’s potentially eligible.
While it may not seem like such a program would automatically impact Mississippi workplaces, it does. Along with incentivizing the creation of new training programs, it also creates opportunities for businesses to close their own skill gaps, all while keeping costs down.
Alternative Work Arrangements Become Part of Long-Term Plans
In the early days of the pandemic, many companies launched work-from-home initiatives to maintain critical operations. However, as the months passed, many discovered the benefits of these arrangements beyond business continuity during COVID-19.
Remote workers can be more productive and happier than their in-office counterparts, particularly since they may have fewer interruptions, get to eliminate their commute, and may have an easier time with work-life balance. Additionally, it often costs less to support a telecommuting employee than it does an on-site one. Utilities, space rental, and other expenses may go down if a significant portion of the workforce is remote.
While not all local employees will remain permanently remote, many Mississippi companies are embracing alternative arrangements, at least on a part-time basis. For example, they may allow a worker to work from home a few days a week and have them come into the office during the others. The hybrid format can be incredibly effective, blending the benefits of on-site interaction and telecommuting morale and productivity boosts.
Ultimately, some of the changes Mississippi companies are seeing today are likely to remain in place, at least for the foreseeable future. By embracing these concepts now, your business stands to benefit.
Need Help Finding Quality Employees? Contact Us Today!
If you are expanding your business or looking for new quality employees, the team at TempStaff can help. Contact us today.
