The Tribune

Two weeks after Hurricane Matthew ravaged a number of islands in our beautiful archipelago, many businesses and individuals, particularly in Grand Bahama, New Providence and Andros, are struggling feverishly to pick up the pieces and move towards normalcy.

Many public and private agencies have joined forces to assist those most affected by the storm, which has destabilised many companies and families.

The losses are tremendous, and the social and economic impact is becoming more evident as time passes.

We agree that the ‘Bahamian spirit’ is a resilient one that can rise above the fray of even seemingly insurmountable odds, but the hurt, pain, loss and frustration is great, and a swift response to those in dire need is crucial.

This catastrophe has provided an opportunity for members of society to be ‘our brother’s keeper’.

The business community must seize the opportunity, despite potential financial loss, to assist individuals in their employment and within the wider community. Here is a quick checklist of what every company should consider in the aftermath of Matthew:

1. DO NOT lay employees off. No company should be considering this as an opportunity to release any team members. Exploring options to cut days or reduce benefits might alleviate some of the financial burden of meeting salary payments despite strained revenue streams.
2. Use this period for the purpose of training and retooling. Identify resources, internal or external, to assist employees in preparing for the influx of customers just around the corner. Training gives employees hope for brighter days ahead, and reminds them of the standards they must deliver on in good times and bad.
3. Consider giving interest free small loans for employees most severely affected by the storm. An employee without a roof, stove, refrigerator etc will have great difficulty delivering the level of service you might expect. Anything you can do to financially release the strain and burden of the loss will be most appreciated.
4. Extend time to address immediate needs they may have. Dealing with insurance companies, banking matters, children out of school, securing a badly damaged roof and all of the other issues that may arise as a result of the storm can be quite overwhelming.

Since much of these are dealt with during the working hours of the day, employers should demonstrate some level of leniency with those affected.

1. Provide counselling and emotional support for individuals coping with loss. We must not take for granted the psychological burden placed on the leaders of homes during this time of great loss. EAP programmes, grief counsellors and other professionals should be engaged to help individuals through their dark hours.
2. Leadership must be visible during this time, and open to sharing and hearing from employees as they overcome their issues. The presence of the owner, or senior executive, sends the message of CARE to those who need it most.

As decision makers in your company, ask yourself: How many of these are you currently doing to assist those in need? It is time to act.

• NB: Ian R. Ferguson is a talent management and organisational development consultant, having completed graduate studies with regional and international universities. He has served organsations, both locally and globally, providing relevant solutions to their business growth and development issues. He may be contacted at tcconsultants@coralwave.com.