Giving weight to workplace wellbeing

The world of work and the demands it places on employers and employees is constantly changing, with technological advancements continually giving rise to new ways of working. Although this has led to increased globalisation and huge market growth, the pressure on workforces to keep up with market developments and maintain competitive business growth is increasingly putting employee health and wellbeing at risk.

 

What is wellbeing?

Generally speaking, the concept of ‘wellbeing’ refers to the way people feel about their lives. Although a person’s sense of wellbeing is informed by their own character, it can also be affected by many external factors, such as their relationships, social life, and even employment.

 

Why should companies take notice of employee wellbeing?

Awareness of the importance of wellbeing in the workplace is growing. Studies have shown that improved employee wellbeing results in:

2. Reduced staff sickness and absence

Mentally and physically healthy employees are more productive and take less time off.  Simple.

2. Improved performance

Happy employees help to establish a positive working atmosphere, resulting in better relationships, engagement, collaboration, and even loyalty. In this way, fostering an organisational culture that prioritises employee wellbeing will lead to greater organisational productivity and performance.

3. Talent acquisition and retention

A company with a reputation for great wellbeing strategies is attractive to potential employees, and a positive working environment makes employees less inclined to leave. This enables the workforce to develop and evolve with the company, ultimately contributing to better business success.

 

How can companies improve and maintain good employee wellbeing?

There are a number of different factors that impact wellbeing and mental health; therefore, it’s important to implement a range of support options and benefits to meet the diverse needs of your workforce.

Here are five tips for improving wellbeing across your organisation:

1. Bespoke working structures

Having flexibility in the workplace, particularly when it comes to working hours, can be vital for employees who prefer to be able to work quietly when they feel less than optimal. On the other hand, some employees may rely on the routine of set working hours to maintain focus and structure. Identify what suits each staff member best, and make sure that roles can be built around individual needs as much as possible.

2. Switch off

Huge advances in technology and the increasing ability to work round the clock from any location have undoubtedly led to increased market globalisation, but they are not without their disadvantages. Some employees find it difficult to ever truly ‘switch off’, leading to increased pressure, stress, sleep deprivation and burnout. Monitor your staff workloads and encourage open communication, making it clear that you value their down time as much as they do.

3. Provide support for physical health

Time and time again, research has shown that exercise and physical health have a huge impact on mental health. From gym memberships to health insurance and cycle to work schemes, there are plenty of benefits you can offer employees to encourage good physical health and help support good mental wellbeing.

4. Provide support for mental health 

Actively supporting your employees’ mental health is integral to building a positive workplace. Consider implementing dedicated training programmes that deliver education around mental health issues, thereby reducing the related stigma and giving your employees effective tools for spotting and dealing with any wellbeing difficulties. Employee assistance programmes that provide counselling and support services to employees and/or their families may also be valuable, as well as dedicated wellbeing portals that give information and guidance on wellbeing-related topics.

5. Value your team members

Finally, individual employee recognition is the foundation of a positive workforce. Ensuring that individual staff members feel seen and appreciated by leadership, managers and co-workers will have a huge impact on their motivation, satisfaction and productivity.

 

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