In Times of Crisis

It is March 13th, 2020. Friday the 13th. It certainly feels like a surreal nightmare.

The global news is constantly focused on developments surrounding COVID-19. The amount of disruption it has caused in the workforce feels unprecedented. And it is causing businesses the world-over to reassess the workplace.

But in the midst of it all, the business world has been reminded of one thing:

People over profits.

There is no question that this will negatively affect the bottom-line of virtually every company.

Situations like this cause massive changes in consumer behavior. Instead of eating out, more people are staying in. Instead of buying luxuries, people are stocking up on essentials. And the effects of sudden and drastic changes in behavior will ripple through the economy.

This particular situation has even changed business behavior. Instead of focusing on how to maximize sales, companies are focusing on how to protect the health and safety of their employees and their families.

Major sports leagues have suspended play.

Airlines have grounded flights.

Even Disneyland has temporarily closed.

We are talking about hundreds of billions of dollars lost. Throw in the shock to the stock market, and that figure shoots up astronomically. And who knows how long-lasting these effects will be?

But the general consensus among employee and employer alike is the health and safety of all.

As it should be.

And why, exactly, is an outsourcing company writing a blog article about this particular topic?

Because we’ve had clients reach out to us these past few days, not just to discuss operations, but also to express their concern for the health of the agents assigned to their account.

We couldn’t help but be reminded that even during this time when the whole world is unsure of what the future holds, we are working with, and for, people that care about us not just as part of their operation, but as fellow humans.

And for that, we are extremely grateful.

And it’s not just in our little circle. Individuals are donating funds to ease the financial burden of those that may find themselves out of work. Companies are offering their services free of charge to help students and schools continue their education programs. Almost everywhere you turn, you can find stories of people helping others.

The following weeks and months are concerning. But in times of crisis, let’s not forget our humanity. It’s especially during these times that we need to be kind to one another.

Stay safe, everyone.