Posted

At long last, the COVID-19 vaccine is finally here. Of course, it’s currently in high demand so depending on your industry you and your staff might still have to wait a bit to access it. In the meantime, you’re working to ensure all of your employees will agree to get vaccinated when they’re able to do so.  

You’ve thought about making COVID-19 vaccinations mandatory as a condition of employment but you know this could get complicated. On Dec. 16, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission issued new guidance on vaccinations that could allow you to require employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine. However, your vaccine policy must adhere to the Americans With Disabilities Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other employment laws. 

It’s certainly easier if your employees just agree to get the vaccine so here’s some advice to help you persuade them to take this step on their own. 

4 Tips to Inspire Employees to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine 

 

Share Personal Stories 

No doubt, your employees watch the news and understand the severity of the COVID-19 virus. However, it can be hard for people to really process what it’s like to contract the virus if no one they know has had it  at least not with major symptoms. 

Ask any employees who have been personally touched by the virus  or an outside party, if not applicable  to write a post on your company blog detailing their experience. Alternatively, you could ask them to speak to your team during a remote staff meeting. Learning about what it’s actually like to have the virus  or watch a loved one battle it  can make them more open to getting the vaccine. 

Get Vaccinated Yourself 

As the boss, you set the tone for your company. If you want employees to get vaccinated, you need to do so yourself. Get the vaccine as soon as it’s available to you, and share your experience with employees. Knowing you took this step will likely inspire many to follow suit because they admire you. 

Offer an Incentive 

An age-old tactic, offering an incentive to get the vaccine could be enough to persuade those currently on the fence about it. Choose something you know people want  i.e., a cash bonus, gift card, extra vacation day  and give it to those who show proof they’ve been vaccinated. 

Educate Them 

Many people are opposed to the COVID-19 vaccine because they’re nervous about it. This makes sense since it’s brand new. Help reassure them it’s safe by sharing information from reliable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As people learn more about the vaccine they’ll likely grow more confident in it. 

Running a business amid a global pandemic is hard work, so allow Wood Staffing to handle your hiring. We won’t stop searching until we find the perfect fit for your Michiana company, so contact us today to discuss a partnership!