COVID-19 has presented a world of new problems that businesses across the world have had to overcome at an unprecedented speed. Very few organizations were prepared for the new way of working. Most employees are now working from home and new systems have procedures have had to be implemented to accommodate the new way of working.
Most notably is the way HR is having to manage staff remotely and Cezanne’s cloud HR software is one of the most important tools businesses can utilize during the pandemic. However, this ‘new normal’ looks like it’s here to stay.
Many managers and staff have begun to realize that the business can still run smoothly with remote working. Business owners relish in the thought of cost-cutting by reducing rental rates for office space and staff is enjoying being able to accommodate a more balanced work/home environment.
There are even reports that most staff find working from home more productive and would opt to continue to do so in the future.
This is why it is crucial to implement the right software to allow smoother processes, not just while COVID-19 is present but to safeguard remote working for the future.
Cloud-based HR systems are proving invaluable for this, we discuss 5 reasons why any business should make the investment in this technology.
1.Keep Track of Absences
Absences can always be hard to keep on top of at the best of times, let alone when staff is not physically present in the office.
Especially in large teams, it can be difficult to know if an empty desk means that colleague is sick, on holiday, or simply stuck in traffic.
Even though staff members should always notify managers if they are not going to be able to work, this can often be overlooked when it comes to relaying information to the rest of the team. In order to avoid this, companies should utilize HR time-off management software.
Cloud-based HR software allows employees to log their time off, while their team members can see in a few clicks why they are not in the office.
Specific settings can be applied so staff can even notify HR if they believe they have contracted the virus so those who have come into contact with them can take the necessary steps to stop the spread.
As all this information is stored in one place and presented as an easy visual, managers can quickly assess if there are any departments that are understaffed.
They can then take the necessary steps to ease workloads and provide extra support, ensuring staff is not overwhelmed with work and targets can still be met.
2.Everything In One Place
Paper copies in the workplace are outdated and impractical. Even more so now that very few employees are able to access them.
Cloud-based HR systems mean that all the information HR departments need to know or pass onto colleagues is stored in one place.
These are password-protected, which means sensitive data can only be accessed by those with the authority to do so.
These files are stored on an external server, which means they can be accessed from any location and any device, removing the worry of lost data from faulty laptops or misplaced paper copies.
Staff details will often change throughout their employment, from new phone numbers, change of address, and emergency contact details.
It can take up a lot of precious time for HR teams to keep these updated and emails requesting these changes can often be lost within inboxes.
Staff can take charge of this themselves by logging onto portals themselves and instantly updating their own information.
3.Track Performance
When staff is working remotely, it can be difficult to keep track of their performance and progression.
Very few managers have enough hours in the day to remain in constant contact with each employee, something that is a lot easier when working within close proximity of each other.
Tasks and targets can be tracked with ease, with the help of employees inputting their data and output for each assignment.
Using performance management software, managers can be given a quick overview of any staff member who is underperforming. This isn’t always a reflection of poor work ethic, but can instead provide an insight into whether an individual requires more training or support in a certain area.
Managers can also see staff who are excelling and completing their tasks ahead of schedule, they can then utilize them to perhaps train struggling colleagues or relieve some of their workloads.
4.Engage With Employees
Especially within large teams, keeping all employees engaged while they are working remotely can be a challenge.
Keeping morale up when managers can’t be there in person can be difficult, but HR systems can help.
Most staff thrive on praise, even more so when that praise is voiced throughout the entire office. HR software can be used to create messages of thanks and praise that the whole team can see.
Small actions such as this can go a long way and really help to boost morale. Instant messaging can be used to simply check in on staff and make sure they are coping well and provide a platform to voice any concerns in private.
5.Continue Training
Many plans have been put on hold for now, but that doesn’t mean employee progression should be too.
While businesses may not have the resources to offer promotions and pay rises, training can still show staff that they are valued and prepare them for when business returns to normal.
Training programs can be created on HR software platforms and managers can monitor progression and sign modules off.
It can also be a great way to detect any staff who may not be able to progress in their training as previously thought, giving managers a chance to step in to reform programs to suit all learning requirements and skill levels.
These are just a few of the benefits of using HR cloud-based software during this time and in the future. HR software can also provide the means to help with recruitment, HR advice, and more.
