GOING THE EXTRA MILE

Offering upskilling and reskilling opportunities to retrenched employees, or those on furlough, helps increase their chances in securing a new job during an economic slowdown

- VINITA BHATIA

There is no doubt that hospitality was amongst the most affected sectors by the pandemic. Following months of uncertainty and lockdowns, many companies were forced to down their shutters temporarily, and some even permanently. This had a ripple effect on their workforce, as the industry saw massive layoffs and furloughs.

However, some companies went beyond the call of duty to help their workforce. When OYO Hotels laid off about almost 15% of its workforce last year, it did its best to support the re-trenched staff. It tied up with agencies to offer a three-month outplacement service that would help the affected employees get new jobs.

As they work with a leaner workforce, Joel Paul, MD, Randstad RiseSmart IMEA tells Vinita Bhatia that most companies will increasingly focus on their team members’ mental health, considering that they are functioning under stressful circumstances. This is the time for organisations to foster goodwill amongst their teams and even help their employees make successful career transitions, wherever possible.

After witnessing massive layoffs and furloughs last year due to lockdowns, the hospitality industry is battling restrictions again. What are the long-term effects on people who suffered its brunt, as well as on those who continue to remain in the business?

Amidst the economic uncertainty, one of the immediate effects was on the workforce’s mental health. Not knowing what lay ahead is a stressful situation to be in, which was also felt by retained employees too.