Communicate Effectively
When it comes to workforce scheduling, disjointed communication is fertile ground for broken operations and increased turnover to flourish. The right workforce scheduling solution with integrated communication features will enable the organization to minimize communication breakdowns.
Effective communication practices enable workers to succeed in their roles and make sure everyone in the organization is following the same strategy. This practice minimizes miscommunication, and ensures messages reach the right people at the right time consistently, effectively, and across multiple channels. Utilize mobile messaging, alerts, and broadcast bulletins so all employees can be informed across more than one location.
With workforce software that combines scheduling and communications, organizations can get mission-critical messages out to teams in advance of their shifts so employees can see them as soon as they log into the application. During shifts, important communication can easily fall through the cracks. A quick and easy way to prevent this from happening is to digitally post important notes in a centralized program hub. The more readily accessible for everyone, the better. When the shift is over, managers can go through their notes and prepare for the next day.
When employees need to make scheduling requests, record overtime, or indicate availability, a simplified digital platform makes the process much easier for all. Supervisors can also inform employees of any changes in workplace demand within the platform. When emergencies strike, app-based communication tools are an effective way to relay one message to the entire workforce quickly. However, when the communication is more personal — like performance or disciplinary-related message communicating it privately is the best practice.
Remember, just sending out a message is no guarantee it will be seen, heard, or acted on. With a proper workforce management program, you can see when directives are being received, read, and implemented.
Ensure Schedule Accessibility
Allowing employees access to schedules means they can make decisions about their own schedule, and ultimately decrease stress related to uncertainties in work hours and last-minute shift changes. With access to workforce scheduling, employees can view their schedules anywhere, increasing flexibility and autonomy.
If employees have input into their preferred schedules, they’ll likely be more satisfied with their workload. An increase in satisfied employees translates into more productive employees who are less likely to leave the company.
Be Compliant
Local and national governments are constantly rolling out new and amended legislation requiring mandatory break times, overtime scheduling, pay rates, paid holidays, and much more. Illinois’ family bereavement law was renamed from the “Child Bereavement Leave Act” to the “Family Bereavement Leave Act”. This amendment expanded the definition of family members for whom bereavement leave may be taken and includes events such as fertility-related losses, failed adoptions, and failed surrogacy agreements as reasons for employees to take bereavement leave.
Amid the flurry of new legislation, “change” is the one constant employers can always anticipate. Just a few notable topics addressed by new legislation include:
- Employee Burnout
- Compliance Best Practices
- Workplace Rights
- FMLA & FLSA Audits
- Paid Family & Medical Leave
Automated workforce scheduling can help to effectively navigate this compliance minefield.
