Unfortunately, the world got news of a new covid variant last week entitled omicron. Scientists say they will need several weeks to study the variant to better assess the transmissibility and severity of disease caused by the new variant. Since the pandemic started, workplaces have had to adjust in a multitude of ways to Covid-19. If you are nervous to work due to omicron you are not alone. Here are some tips on how to navigate this situation.
Talk to your manager about your concerns
A good starting point is to talk to your manager. Explain what the problem is and how you think the company can help. It may be possible for you to work an alternative schedule when there are fewer people at work or to work from home at times. Unfortunately, this is not the case for all jobs such as those in the service industry that is about interacting face to face with customers. Hopefully, you have a good relationship with your manager, and they can understand your concerns. If your manager isn’t helpful ask them if there is someone else, you can talk to such as someone in human resources. It is important for your manager not to feel you went above them or behind their back so it can be helpful to have a plan with your manager as to any accommodations that can be provided
Follow public health protocols
Doctors and public health experts say that the best way to prepare for the omicron variant is to get vaccinated and a booster shot when eligible. You are eligible for a booster shot if you had the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine six or more months ago and if you had the Johnson and Johnson vaccine more than two months ago. If you have questions about the vaccine, it is best to speak with your primary care provider. Wearing a mask, social distancing by keeping six feet away from others, and watching your hands frequently are all recommendations by public health experts to limit exposure to any variant of COVID-19.
Find a job that limits your exposure to others
If you are concerned about being around others while there is still unknown information about the omicron variant, consider looking for a job that would limit exposures to others or be one hundred percent remote. Such jobs exist as customer service representatives. Some companies such as JetBlue airways have all their customer service representatives work from home. Considering covid-19, many industries have switched operations to be remote. It is helpful to look through job listings on indeed or Linked in to see what options are out there. You could also investigate any training programs for jobs that would enable you to work from home. It is important to be flexible when looking into new careers. The good news is there are currently more jobs open than people willing to fill them so hopefully, you can find a job that is a good fit.
Take time off
Since a lot more will be known about the variant in the coming weeks, it may make sense to take some time off to avoid going into a workspace with other people. Many people have days off around Christmas and new year’s which can be helpful. If you have some extra paid time off it may make sense to use some now until we know more about the variant. Unfortunately, not everyone can take time off or get paid for that time off but if it is an option for you to do so it is certainly worth considering.
A lot remains unknown about the omicron variant of COVID-19. If you are concerned about how omicron is in your workplace, talking to your manager, following public health protocols, looking for a new job, and considering taking time off. If you are still struggling, career counseling can help. Contact me today.