You Have to Pay Attention

Today is November 24, 2020.  I had a client ask me today what the ‘COVID pay’ is and how it works. 

What?!?  Are you freaking kidding me?

If you are a business owner or leader today, you do not have the luxury of not paying attention.  There are so many moving pieces and parts right now – you have to know what is going on.  And it’s not just about you – you have employees depending on you for their livelihood.  It’s irresponsible not to be informed right now.

Here are the top 5 things business owners need to be following right now:

1. The Biden/Harris Administration – change is coming, folks.  The new administration will be sworn in on January 20, 2021; however, the works begins way before then.  Cabinet positions are being filled and significant work is being done to address the COVID pandemic.  If you’re not yet following the work of the new presidential administration, you need to start. 

2. Your state’s response to COVID – every state in the U.S. has taken some level of action in response to COVID.  Most have dedicated websites at minimum.  I’m proud to say that here in Ohio, our government is killing it in terms of resources and outreach.  You have to stay current on decisions your state is making.  More than likely, the actions have or will affect your business and/or your employees in some way.  Intentionally set aside time each day to check in on developments.  I have my governor’s weekly press conferences blocked off on my calendar – it’s that important. 

3. Your local government – municipalities around the country are issuing their own responses to COVID.  These include stay-at-home advisories, curfews, and mask mandates.  For whatever city/town/village/township/county your business resides in, be sure to follow them closely for important updates. 

4. Congress – last spring, Congress passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).  This legislation provided for both Emergency Paid Sick Leave (EPSL) and extended Family Medical Leave Act (eFMLA) for all businesses with 500 employees or less.  This is different from the CARES Act and has nothing to do with the PPP loan program.  As of now, FFCRA is in effect until 12/31/2020.  The question is if it will be extended into 2021 – stay tuned!

5. HR – whoever you lean on for human resources-related advice, guidance, and support should currently be on your speed dial.  You should be having regular discussions on your business’s COVID response plan, not to mention talking through how to handle individual employee situations.  As changes happen at the federal/state/local level, you need to adjust your plans accordingly and communicate to your employees immediately.  Your HR advisor should be assisting every step of the way.  Now, stop ‘should-ing’ and get it done! 

2020 has been an insane, crazy year.  And small businesses have really felt the heat.  As an owner or company leader, you know this better than most.  It’s scary seeing so many businesses shut their doors and I know you desperately do not want to be in that position.  So as you continue to navigate this pandemic, I urge you to stay up on government developments and lean on HR.  Your people are counting on you.