Notably, more than 90 Apple Stores in the US had to be shut down once again due to the surge in number of COVID-19 positive cases. Apple Stores that are still open have also mandated face masks and are also conducting temperature checks upon entry. Remarkably, it is also taking steps to facilitate its employees to take Covid-19 tests at home for those who are working from home. As per a Bloomberg Quint’s report, the company has shared a video message earlier this week informing the retail staff about the management. Furthermore, the company is also said to be shipping coronavirus testing kits for employees. However, it had added that it is unlikely that it will be able to fully return to the offices this year.
WFH Retail Staff To Facilitate Online Sales and Customer Support Programs
In the video, Apple Senior VP of Retail and People, Deirdre O’Brien urged the retail staff to start working remotely in case their stores are closed due to the pandemic. The remotely working Apple retail staff would help customers in buying and seeking support for products over phone or via. other online channels. Deirdre O’Brien said, “If your store is closed, please sign up for Retail at Home, please talk to your manager, because we really need to make sure that we shift our teams to greet our customers remotely in this time. We may need to be working remotely for some period of time.” The popular tech company is also hoping to reduce on the longish wait times as more and more customers are turning to online purchase amidst the global health crisis. The company had launched a program earlier this year to let its retail employees switch to online roles to better serve the customers in these challenging times. In light of the local conditions and the pandemic, Apple is planning to open offices in phases. The process had initially begun in June with staff who were unable effectively do their jobs remotely from home. Apple has said, “We’ll begin to welcome back team members who prefer to work from the office or those with projects that require them to be in the office, while continuing to significantly limit total occupancy.”
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