Operators need to focus on compliance and communication during challenging times
concerns so far – will ease staffing challenges remains to be seen.
FINDING RESILIENCE
While uncertainty remains, Bierman and Chang believe operators should focus on what they can control: compliance, communication, and protecting their teams. For Bierman,
preparation is key. “When it comes to immigration
“It's important for business owners and employees to maintain positivity and optimism. Even during the dark times of the Covid pandemic businesses became more creative – now it's about finding the bright parts”
enforcement, it’s about setting yourself up for success – first by following the law and making sure you’re performing I-9 audits [to verify employment eligibility], so you know where your weak spots are. But it’s also about knowing your rights and those of your employees and guests. If somebody comes to your door looking for undocumented immigrants, make sure you have an attorney you can call at any time.” As a business owner who
is also very active in her local community, Chang keeps vigilance high, even though none of her employees – mostly Latin American – have
been arrested or questioned. “Small business owners need to be educated and aware of what’s going on in their local communities and nationally,” she says. “Every member of our team has a handbook explaining what to do if they are approached by ICE. Our managers are available at any time. We regularly check in with our staff to see if they or anyone they know has been affected and to remind them not to go to certain areas ICE might be targeting. Any business owner can do this – it’s really just the basics.”
Despite the challenges,
Chang remains hopeful about the industry’s ability to adapt: “It’s easy to become pessimistic, given that there’s a lot going against us,” she says. “But I think it’s important for business owners and employees to maintain positivity and optimism. Even during the dark times of the COVID pandemic, businesses became more creative, trying out new revenue streams like takeout, meal kits, and virtual classes. Now it’s about finding the bright parts of the day-to-day and seeking out local groups and resources.”
FOR MORE GO TO
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THE AMERICAS
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