The coronavirus Delta variant has caused some federal agencies to rethink their return-to-office plans. The Biden administration now says federal employees have to get vaccinated or face strict testing measures.
- Federal Workplace Expert Mika Cross said agencies should engage in frequent, impactful communication with employees about the latest guidance, requirements and workplace flexibilities as they start to bring workers back to offices.
- Cross said leaders should focus on employee wellbeing and work to mitigate anxiety and stress that can harm agency productivity and mission delivery.
- Cross said agencies can start by examining which employees are already working remotely all or part of the time and determine if that can continue.