In March of 2020, employers were scrambling to keep their businesses afloat. Now, they’re updating processes and procedures to ensure that they’re prepared for any challenge that may come their way.

In their fifth and most recent survey, the Blank Rome team asked employers about their biggest challenges, their return-to-work models, and how the pandemic has affected work environments and operations. What they found is that procedures are changing and affecting businesses and their people for the better.

Now, employers are more prepared than ever for future business disruptions. According to the survey, 69.54% of employers now have an emergency plan of action in place. They’ve familiarized themselves with the challenges and protocols, and now they know what it takes to pivot. Many are lifting safety protocols, including mask regulations and remote-only meetings, however, they’re prepared to reinstitute protocols should another COVID surge take place.

Although employers are prepared for future disruptions, many are facing a plethora of new challenges right now. At the top of each employers’ list of challenges is the Great Resignation. Employees are leaving their jobs at an excessive rate, and employers are working to combat this by changing up traditional models. They’re also focused on revamping hiring and retention practices and wage policies to cater to the needs of employees.

Apart from the Great Resignation, the pandemic has brought about plenty of other challenges. But these challenges have proved that great things can come from difficult times. Not only are employers improving hiring and retention procedures, but they’re also more focused on the physical and mental health of employees. Additionally, they’re advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives as well as environmental and social governance.

What other changes, challenges, and positive advancements have been brought about by the pandemic?

In this episode of BR @ Work, host Blank Rome Labor & Employment partner William J. Anthony talks with Brooke T. Iley, partner and Labor & Employment co-chair, and Susan L. Bickley, partner. Will, Brooke, and Susan examine the results of Blank Rome’s sixth Employer Workplace Survey and discuss how companies can address the high-stakes obstacles that will play a pivotal role in positioning their businesses for “What’s Next.”

Name: William J. Anthony

What he does: As a Partner at Blank Rome, Will’s labor and employment practice focuses on class, collective, and multi-party actions. He also provides training on management skills, discrimination, harassment, and other labor topics nationwide.

Company: Blank Rome LLP

Words of wisdom: “It does seem like we should be prepared for disruption for probably forever.”

Connect: LinkedIn | Email

Name: Susan Bickley

What she does: Susan is a Partner in Blank Rome’s Labor and Employment practice, and she’s the Chair of their Houston office. Susan has over 30 years of civil trial and appellate experience in employment litigation for private and public employers, litigation involving commercial and business disputes, trade secret litigation, and the defense of claims against professionals. She serves a diverse range of clients, including publicly held corporations, smaller companies, and start-ups, as well as public entities and their officials.

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