The summer of 2021 is quickly becoming "The Summer of Me" for many folks, especially workers who have had enough on the job and are quitting. On a national level, the number of resignations is seeing a spike. Indeed after a year where workers stuck it out on jobs they might have otherwise resigned from for fear of not finding work, being furloughed or possibly even terminated, it is only natural that the numbers are going to increase, but what does this mean?
For employers it means that they need to increase their awareness. How is morale among the staff? Can anything else be done to show appreciation or recognition? Who may be in a position to continue working remotely? Working remotely is a big shift for folks. They felt comfortable, more balanced, and more autonomous in their day-to-day, but now that the world is reopening they have to give that up. Perhaps many aren't ready to do so. Employers should ask themselves, how much do we value this/these employee(s) and/or what can we do to keep them? Maybe the answer is as simple as allowing them a 4-day workweek with longer hours each day or some combination of remote and in-person work, where appropriate. However, employers need not be rash in these decisions to ensure they protect themselves. If there wasn't already, there should be a remote work or telework policy in place. A system of regular reviews or evaluations should be established to closely monitor performance. These arrangements only work with excellent communication and trust.
For employees who have had enough it means turning in a resignation and not looking back. Although instead of hitting the unemployment line, many see it as an opportunity to start a new venture, one where they control their own destiny. This is a powerful motivating force for many and leads to greatness as new businesses open up and new ideas emerge. As a society we benefit from such greatness, and as a business owner, so do they. However, there are many risks when starting a new business, even as soon as opening the doors. Were the licenses properly filed? Is the website properly set-up? Is the insurance policy enough? Is there enough protection on the ideas, assets, and collateral to avoid infringers? These risks can be minimized with support, and rightfully so it makes them not strong enough to stop folks ready to take the leap.
All signs suggest we are in for another wave of change and progress. Experiencing it as it unfolds this summer will surely be exciting. Here's to you - the employers, employees, and change-makers!
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