The coronavirus pandemic has been a game-changer in more ways than one. Its impact on open workplaces, economy, employment and the legal landscape is something that has already started to leave its mark. As businesses grapple with unprecedented and often challenges, employment law is forced to take a major shift to accommodate the ‘new normal’. This article takes look at the various changes and challenges in the legal system brought about due to the novel virus, and how employers and employees must both be prepared to adapt.
1. Navigating the New Employment Landscape Post-COVID
COVID-19 has drastically changed the way employers operate and the way employees go about job seeking. To stay competitive and succeed in newly competitive job markets, job seekers must employ new strategies to make the most of their career opportunities.
- Stay Up-to-Date: Job trends are changing at an unprecedented rate in the post-COVID economy. Those seeking employment should stay aware of these changes in order to succeed. Staying abreast of new developments can help job seekers keep their skills fresh and their opportunities up to date.
- Create a Digital Presence: A digital presence is a must for those applying for jobs in the job market. Job seekers must ensure that their online profiles and resumes are up-to-date and highlights the best parts of their character and skillset. Social media accounts should also be kept professional at all times.
- Utilize Technology: Online job boards, review sites, and even virtual job fairs are becoming increasingly popular — and important. These online tools can help job seekers find the right opportunities and connect with hiring managers.
- Be Proactive: The job market may look difficult and daunting, but being proactive and searching for job postings can be beneficial. Look for job postings, conduct informational interviews, and reach out to employers for more job opportunities.
By navigating the changing job landscape post-COVID, prospective employees can set themselves up for long-term success. Ultimately, it is important to remain organized, use the right tools, and stay informed in the job market to ensure a successful employment experience.
2. Unprecedented Changes in Employment Law Since the Outbreak
The outbreak of COVID-19 has led to unprecedented changes in the employment landscape. Businesses have had to adjust to the pandemic and many have had to restructure their employment practises to survive. Here are just some of the changes that employers need to know about.
- Flexible Working – Many businesses have had to adopt a remote working set-up. Job roles that could not switch to remote working have had to adapt to flexible hours or compressed hours to ensure the safety of all staff.
- Changes to Sick Pay – Statutory Sick Pay, or SSP, is now available to all employees instead of just those who have been employed for six months or more. This means that all employees can take time off work if they or someone they live with has symptoms, or if they need to isolate in line with government guidelines.
- Social Distancing – Employee safety is of paramount importance during the pandemic. Employers must adhere to social distancing guidelines in the workplace and provide a safe working environment for all workers.
These changes may seem daunting for employers, but it is important to remember that these are necessary steps to ensure the safety of employees. With a bit of adaptation and understanding, businesses can work together to keep everyone safe and healthy during this difficult time.
3. Anticipating the Challenges Ahead for Employment Law in 2021
Anticipating the Challenges Ahead for Employment Law in 2021
Last year, 2020 and the early-part of 2021, have added new challenges and concerns for employers in relation to employment law and regulations. As companies and organizations adjust to the ever-changing legal environment, here are some of the trending challenges to monitor and anticipate when it comes to employment law in 2021.
- 1. Worker Classification
- From gig workers to online contractors and employees, worker classification will continue to be a challenge in 2021. Employers need to ensure that they’re not unknowingly misclassifying individuals and should be aware of their respective state’s employment regulations.
- The disruptions to everyday life caused by Covid-19 are far from over and employers are required to understand the implications of the virus on their business. Employers must ensure they comply with any health and safety regulations set by their state or federal government.
- Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives will continue to be a top priority for many employers in 2021. Fostering a culture of diversity and inclusivity will become increasingly important for employers as the pressing social implications of the pandemic continues.
- With the evolution of work habits due to the pandemic, remote working is here to stay. Employers must be up-to-date with their policies and regulations related to remote working and must ensure they are providing their employees the necessary tools and resources to work remotely.
2. Covid-19 Precautions
3. Diversity Initiatives
4. Remote Working
As companies strive to build a more flexible and modern workplace, it’s up to employers to stay informed of the ever-changing employment legal landscape in order to limit any potential risks or issues. Following the updates and considerations mentioned previously should provide a great starting point for employers as they anticipate the challenges ahead for employment law in 2021.
4. Adapting the Workplace to the New Legal Reality of COVID-19
The coronavirus pandemic has had a major impact on workplace legal realities and many businesses have had to adapt quickly in order to stay in compliance with labor regulations. Here are a few ways employers can make sure their workplace is aligned with the new legal reality of COVID-19:
Communication with Employees
- Stay informed about changes in employment laws. Regularly update employees on current regulations and how they may affect the workplace.
- Remain flexible and open to changes. As the context of the pandemic can change in an instant, employers must be willing to fairly and promptly adjust employee policies according to the latest legal realities.
- Encourage conversations about safety. Have periodic discussions with staff about health and safety protocols and how they can be executed properly in the workplace.
Employee Benefits
- Provide paid leave. Make sure that employees have access to the paid time off necessary to comply with the health regulations currently in place.
- Flexible working hours. Provide flexible options when it comes to work hours, including the ability to work remotely when possible.
- Health insurance coverage. Make sure that employees have access to affordable health insurance coverage in order to stay healthy during these challenging times.
It’s been an exhausting, strange and challenging few months. Through the uncertainty of the pandemic, we have seen huge changes to employment law that have affected the lives of many people across the world. While the future is uncertain, we can trust that governments, legislators and employers will do their best to ensure employee protection. As we live and learn through this pandemic, we must remember to strive to be flexible, adaptive and resilient.
