In an increasingly dynamic and complex business climate, risk management has become an even more consequential role in providing insight and guidance during one of the most unpredictable times for many. The COVID-19 pandemic has created new problems for businesses that were unforeseen: having to shift their employees to remote work, severe health safety concerns, disruption in consumer behaviors, and a rapid reduction of resources. 

Focusing on the pandemic-triggered issues is essential to reaching the ‘recovery stage’. It’s impossible to confidently predict the future being in the midst of a raging pandemic but it is possible to take maximum precaution in effort to minimize the effects. Organizations need to begin with adjusting business strategy around pandemic-specific threats. The welfare of its workforce must be the first priority and that may translate to bringing reluctant employees back to work by investing in new ventilation systems, rapid covid testing, temperature checkpoints, plexiglass, and enhanced sanitation. The welfare of the employees also means the wellbeing of themselves and family- implementing different forms of support like child care and extended health coverage.  Another way to encourage workers to return to the offices is, organizations can require assigned days for workers to come in- that way employees can slowly transition into coming into the office for fewer hours of the day and complete remaining work at home. 

Health issues continue to pose a major challenge to the comfort of workers returning to work. Another point to be made is pre-pandemic statistics, i.e. the 2018 Global Talent Trends study done by Mercer, showed employees desired a more flexible workplace and schedule. Many have adjusted to remote work, enjoy the flexibility and hope it becomes permanent. Going forward, versatility in the workplace will remain a top priority in the professions of many workers. Working from home has proved to be doable and organizations will have to begin compromising.