This article appeared in the April 2020 issue of MiMfg Magazine. Read the full issue and find past issues online.

The Coronavirus pandemic has forever changed the definition of “normal” in our world. It is forcing everyone to change personal routines, habits and behaviors in a way that will transform how we live and work moving forward. While there is no clear timetable for how long this crisis will last, we can be certain that this too will pass. As business owners and leaders, we have a number of unprecedented challenges and opportunities ahead of us as we establish our new “normal.” I want to highlight one of each while pointing out the one core and critical ingredient to navigating it all: People.

A challenge every organization will be forced to deal with is the mass shuffle of talent. We are living in a world of extremes where some organizations are being forced to shut down or lay off a significant portion of their workforce, while others are hiring unprecedented numbers of new talent. This drastic shift in employment will create significant challenges for those organizations that have to reboot. Many will face a reality that when they are able to resume normal operations, they may not actually have enough people to do so. It is urgent for every organization, regardless of scenario, to formulate new strategies for identifying, hiring, onboarding and developing new talent in volume. Failing to address this now will not only extend the negative financial impacts of the pandemic but could have a catastrophic organizational result.

Despite the significant talent challenges that need to be dealt with, this is a major opportunity to focus on solidifying your culture and workforce. Use this time to engage and retain the key people who will play a significant role in restarting your organization. Acknowledging their sacrifices and emphasizing their role in the future is a great way to pave the path forward. Although it may seem like a long time ago, remember how challenging it was to find quality talent pre-pandemic. The talent landscape has shifted dramatically going from sub 4 percent unemployment to hundreds of thousands of people out of work. Be mindful of the issues that are facing those who are returning to work. Find ways you can support them. By doing so you may be able to engage the additional talent you were struggling to find previously but will need to thrive moving forward.

Although the pandemic has been a sobering reminder of how quickly things can change, it has also afforded us an opportunity to learn and evolve organizationally and as human beings. Taking this opportunity to redefine “normal” with a mindful and intentional approach centered around people will put us on solid footing as we move forward. In the meantime, stay safe and healthy as we await that opportunity.

SDI Clarity is an MMA Premium Associate Member and has been an MMA member since September 2019. Visit online: sdiclarity.com.

About the Author

Jeremy Erard is a partner for SDI Clarity. He may be reached at 616-988-4302 x104 or jerard@sdiclarity.com.