I run a small business and employ four people. It’s impossible to find reliable people — they either don’t want to work or just stop showing up. Now I have to require them to be vaccinated so it’s even more difficult. Any advice? Well, the predicament that you find yourself in is the same for every business regardless of size. The difference is that if you lose one or two employees, that’s half your workforce and threatens your ability to actually run your business. Small businesses need to be especially creative and entrepreneurial. Beyond paying well and creating a fun, respectful and supportive work environment, consider offering a learning experience so that the job is more than just being a store clerk. Try teaching your employees how to run a business. Work out a relationship with a local college that has a business program where you can offer a paid “training program” and hire multiple students to work flexible hours part-time, rather than looking for a full-time person who you hope will stick with you for a long time, which is exceedingly hard to find. If the masks that most people wear don’t protect against this virus (according to the science) and if the vaccine doesn’t prevent contracting or transmitting the virus (according to the science), then why am I forced to require my employees to do both? Those who are uncomfortable in the work environment are allowed to work remotely. So what’s wrong with that? Can the government really tell me how to run my business? I’m with you, Governor DeSantis. Employment laws vary by state and the regulations covering COVID are no different. New York has some of the most stringent requirements for employers in the country. However, our new mayor has said the focus is on compliance, not enforcement, so read into that what you will. Authorities aren’t forcing social distancing on subways, and that’s an underground, unventilated, congested petri dish, but we’re told that as long as everyone keeps their 10-cent face masks over their noses, we are all safer. Do you wonder why people are flocking to Florida? Gregory Giangrande has over 25 years of experience as a chief human resources executive. Hear Greg Weds. at 9:35 a.m. on iHeartRadio 710 WOR with Len Berman and Michael Riedel. E-mail: [email protected]. Follow: GoToGreg.com and on Twitter: @greggiangrande
