We’re about a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, and while there are advancements being made every day to return the world to normal, it can seem further away than ever. This recurring feeling of uncertainty and fear has many people feeling fatigued, anxious, and burnt out, even after returning to work. Michael Kling, OD, shares how he identifies that his staff members need a mid-pandemic boost as well as how he supplies that boost.

Initial Energy Fades

Many of you may have noticed a refreshing energy in practice after reopening. Staff members were excited to be back and determined to make any updates and changes to daily routines work. However, that energy was short lived and began to fade, leaving frustration in its wake as colleagues tried to navigate the new challenges and learn how to deal with the “new normal.”

Though you’ve done your best to prepare for these changes, the reality of the extra work and added time to otherwise simple tasks overcome the excitement of being back. Additionally, these changes weigh heavy as none of us know when this will truly end.

Identify Signs of Stress

In these instances, it’s important to be perceptive to the feel of your workplace. When frustration becomes a part of daily routine, tensions rise and petty conflict becomes more likely. Dr. Kling said his colleague came to him after “noticing employees bickering and becoming testy with each other over little things.” In this moment, Dr. Kling decided to call a staff-wide meeting to discuss these feelings. He notes that it’s important for coworkers to know that they’re not alone in their frustrations.

“I noted that the strain is mutual, but the need for respect also is mutual–that we needed to be sympathetic with one another since we are all likely feeling the same frustrations.”

Getting Out of the Rut

While identifying the stress and frustration of employees is one aspect of the mid-pandemic boost, more needs to be done to get your practice out of the COVID rut. Dr. Kling suggests a few ways of doing this including celebrating the “small” wins, calling out employees who are doing well, and dedicating time to enjoy each other’s company outside of the workplace.

How EyePromise Can Help

An EyePromise partnership is unique in many ways, and one of those ways is the in-practice support our Regional Account Managers provide. Not only do they train your staff so they feel comfortable with the products and program, but they can help you start in-practice contests and competitions to help motivate and invigorate your coworkers.

When running a practice, it’s key to keep your employees happy as well as your patients. That’s why it’s so important to be perceptive of your staff’s behavior and the tension in the room(s). These are just a few of the ways you can change the sentiment throughout the office, but the most critical aspect is to help your colleagues feel heard and understood.