A new study shows Florida’s recent non-active hurricane seasons may be causing employees across the state to worry about the impact a big hurricane could have on their lives.
Despite the hurricane seasons the state’s seen over the years, the study shows nearly half of 600 Florida employees surveyed say they’re concerned a severe hurricane could be lurking around the corner.
“If employees don’t have peace of mind, they’re ability to contribute to the company is significantly curtailed—they’re minds are just not in it. They’re thinking about home. They’re thinking about ‘Oh my gosh. What do we do if something hits,'” said Wayne Hochwarter.
Hochwarter is with Florida State University’s College of Business, and the head of the study. He says his research shows companies successful at managing hurricane related-anxiety use what he calls the “Three S’s of Survival: Strategy, Support, and Security.” That includes having a safety plan in place and putting employees’ minds at ease by letting them know they’ll be allowed time to deal with any hurricane-related issues at their homes.
“What people are looking for when there’s uncertainly is communication. They want to feel like they’re in on things. They want to know what’s going on. They want to know what’s going on. They want to know what to do in the event that things are upside down, and trust. They want to know the company is trustworthy---they say what they mean. And, from there I think that’s really important."
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