The world never sleeps anymore, and customer demands are expected round the clock. This is why some businesses opt for a shift-based work schedule. At present, flexible time and telecommuting aren’t just perks offered by a company; they’re becoming a standard in the workplace to keep both employees and customers happy.
But how can you transition to a mobile workforce as a small- to medium-sized healthcare business? With fewer resources and employees, this change is really easier for you than your larger counterparts. Here’s how.
#1 Allow your employees to adjust
First, consider the current work schedule of your employees. What time do they report to the hospital? More importantly, why time do patients need them the most and for what reasons? If a certain employee handles paperwork like patients’ protected health information (PHI), you can’t allow the staff to work remotely during peak hours.
Set a specific time when they have to report to their desks and schedule a different time (preferably during downtime) when they can take their tasks home. Of course, they have to ensure the data privacy of their patients even when working remotely.
And if you’re adopting a new technology, allow your staff to adjust to it. How will the new tech tool make their work faster and easier? Get their feedback on the usability of the new software and optimize it to their advantage.
#2 Revise your management program
Make the transition easier for your employees by adopting a management program. This will allow you to monitor their activity and gauge their efficiency and productivity during and after the transition.
Some management software will even provide data on your staff’s mental health and level of motivation. This will make delegating tasks easier, as you’ll be sure the right tasks will be given to the right people when they’re most ready for it.
Of course, checking in with your employees in person should still be a priority. When it comes to employee satisfaction, a personal touch goes a long way. Have a weekly meeting with your team and see how they’re doing with regard to the changes in the workforce. Once they’ve settled in, you can schedule shorter monthly reviews.
#3 Adopt the BYOD policy
To minimize the cost of digitalization, adopt the bring your own device (BYOD) strategy. This will limit resistance from employees and customers alike, as they are already familiar with their own devices.
However, you must put robust security safeguards in place to prevent data loss or theft in case their devices are lost, stolen, or hacked. Additional identity management and tech support will also help you to secure your data, especially your ePHI.
#4 Partner with a trusted MSP
Productivity suffers if your employees don’t have the resources they need during business transactions. In the healthcare industry, effective communication and fast response literally save lives. However, data privacy shouldn’t be the price to pay for convenience and work flexibility.
To make sure your technology stays in tip-top shape while your data is protected 24/7/365, partner with a managed IT services provider (MSP) like Solution Partner. We provide proactive technology management and support to help your business increase your productivity and profitability.
If you have more questions about telecommuting and mobile workforces, call us today!
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