If you think about accounting firms, you will probably imagine a company that deals with standard...
Although the UK economy is beginning to open, businesses are braced for a second wave. In today's article, we'll tell you how to prepare.
In recent weeks, respected figures have warned of a second wave of coronavirus infection. This is something that all responsible businesses must bear in mind.
Don't assume we have seen the last of the virus.
Preparation is key. Today, all our top tips for preparing your business.
How Likely is A Second Wave?
This is a problem that has confounded scientists. Countries that have recently reopened seem to have avoided a second spike. However, the government is concerned that colder weather this winter could bring about a resurgence.
Our advice is not to worry too much about statistics and probabilities. Your job as a business owner is to make sure you are well prepared.
If you fail to prepare, a second spike of coronavirus could be catastrophic to your business. However, if you prepare thoroughly and we avoid a second wave - no harm done! You are now better prepared in case something similar happens in the future.
Preparing To Re-Open
A lot of your preparation for a resurgence in coronavirus will form part of your re-opening strategy. Our article Coronavirus - Getting Back To Work will be really helpful. We'll just summarise our top tips:
- Hygiene - Make sure you have plenty of hand sanitiser. Arrange for frequent deep cleaning of the office. Make sure staff don't have to share office supplies.
- Equipment - Decide if you will provide staff with masks. Do you need to put up screens between desks? Do you have enough hand washing space?
- Remote Working - Make sure that everyone has a laptop if they need to work from home. Check your familiarity with Zoom/Skype etc
- Staff - Have you discussed a return to work with staff? Are they able to travel safely to work? Can you afford to maintain a full headcount?
All the preparations will pay off if we see a second spike later in the year. You will probably have to go through a similar process, so you will have the blueprint ready to go.
Long-Term Preparation & Precaution
Having gone through one "spike" in coronavirus, you should now have a good idea of how to deal with a second one.
Visualise how you would deal with an office closure later in the year. Could staff work remotely for a short period of time? Are they set up to remote into the office?
How about contracts? Is it time to think about re-wording staff contracts in case the business needs to close again? What if you can't access the furlough scheme this time around? Do you have enough cash to cope with a slowdown for a few months?
Think about your business model. Does your range of goods or services reflect a post-corona world? Do you offer delivery? Can you offer your services over Zoom?
If you are concerned about coronavirus and your business, please get in touch. One of our experts will call you back straight away. We have helped hundreds of clients through this difficult time.
