The wave of illness is hitting the office – and with it comes new challenges but also unexpected opportunities. Those who stay in the company suddenly become more visible. Their commitment is recognised with small rewards such as extra goodies, spontaneous team lunches or flexible working hours. Does that sound like a split? Perhaps. But it also opens up new opportunities.
The team is changing. Suddenly, employees who usually work in the background are taking on responsibility. New talents emerge that often remain undiscovered in the usual team constellation. The distribution of tasks is rethought – and this can bring a breath of fresh air.
Those who stay have the chance to contribute their skills more intensively and help the company move forward. And when the colleagues who have been ill return? Then they will meet a team that has grown, developed new structures and can benefit from the experience gained. This is not a split – it is a new way of realising potential and supporting each other in a completely different way.
However, the rising number of cases of illness is also leaving its mark. Many employees come to work sick or work from home despite being ill – which not only delays their recovery but also affects the quality of their work.
The increasing number of cases of illness is also leading to more BEM information meetings and procedures. Companies need to take a closer look at the health of their employees and find long-term solutions to reduce stress and better absorb sickness-related absences.
Ultimately, every challenge also harbours opportunities. Waves of illness pose problems for companies, but they also open up new ways of working together. If teams remain flexible, responsibility is redistributed and health aspects are given greater focus, sustainable change can result – for greater resilience and stronger cooperation.