Supporting Staff in Changing Work Environment During the Pandemic & Beyond

About the Program

Category: Personnel Management, Employment and Training (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic changed work forever. The switch to working remotely and hybrid workspaces requires us to be more intentional about how staff are supported, especially in the social service world. The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services Adult Protective Services (APS) program took some key steps to support existing and new staff in a hybrid world and implemented the following: • New Worker Jam Sessions: Support new staff in learning the culture of the County and the APS team, and how to build relationships and knowledge when not physically in the office. • Morning Buzz: A modern take on the water cooler for field/line staff, led by field/line staff and with an added “ask the manager” feature that allows staff to get answers and input from managers about anything related to the job. • Supervisor Coffee Meet-up (virtual): Information support, socialization, and input sessions for supervisors. • Mentoring: Mentor component added to the existing training program The strategies were implemented to reduce isolation, foster learning and knowledge sharing, encourage growth and thriving, and allow new staff to learn and become part of the culture of the team, even when not in the office together.