UK retail workers are struggling to communicate with colleagues during Covid-19, according to new research by retail communication specialists, VoCoVo. Half of all workers (50%) said that maintaining communication with colleagues whilst social distancing was the biggest challenge they have faced with the change in working practices due to Covid-19.
Other challenges identified were being able to re-stock quickly enough to meet demands (45%), feeling safe in the work environment (40%), being able to answer customer queries (40%) and staying positive and engaged (38%).
Despite the challenges of the new environment, the majority of retail workers remain positive as to how retailers have handled the crisis. Over three quarters (76%) felt their store was prepared to deal with the pandemic, with a quarter (25%) stating they felt their store was very well prepared. Workers also admitted to having a sense of pride with 84% said they felt valued by society since Covid-19.
“Retail workers are doing their best to continue to provide good customer service during these difficult times, but they need more support to feel connected to their colleagues. Social distancing will make staff increasingly susceptible to feelings of isolation, so retailers need to do all they can to help colleagues feel connected, boost morale and encourage a healthy team dynamic,” says Martyn Jones, Director, VoCoVo.
“There are solutions available that can help facilitate these changes, such as voice communication technology, which enables staff to comply with social distancing measures whilst remaining in constant communication with colleagues. However, retail managers should also be gathering regular feedback from staff to ensure they are implementing measures that address their concerns. ”
