As we enter a new phase in life, CEO’s, HR leaders and managers are in a very unique position to listen, act and prioritise employee wellbeing.
Lockdown has been a learning curve for both businesses and employees. We have had to learn how to stay productive with the home comforts surrounding us daily.
Resolutions will likely look very different this year, with stress and anxiety running riot because of the global climate.
A study has discovered, more than one in four adults experienced depression in the last year, meaning employers need to prioritise employee wellbeing.
How Do You Prioritise Employee Wellbeing At Work?
The main thing to understand is everyone’s experience of lockdown has been unique to them, with many facing challenges we are all unaware of.
Whether that’s due to pressure from work, changing responsibilities, a new way of working or potentially juggling childcare with work.
This has brought a natural shift in focus, from a leader’s perspective, employee mental health and wellbeing has never been more focused on ensuring they have the support and training they need.
As your employees transition out of lockdown, there is a lot for them to think about at home and work and it is only normal to feel uncertain about what the future holds.
To be successful you have to individualise each employee. A one shoe fits all approach when tackling mental wellbeing doesn’t work, it in facts shows the employees that leadership lacks care.
Raising Awareness Of Mental Health And Wellbeing
In many workplaces, mental health is the elephant in the room. Too often employees are petrified to open up and talk about their problems to a senior colleague.
Employers need to raise awareness and promote a discussion around mental health and wellbeing to proactively challenge this harmful culture.
Spotting Signs Of Mental Health Problems
Not everyone will show obvious signs of wellbeing problems, and it’s important to not make assumptions. Some possible signs at work may include:
- Appearing tired, anxious or within themselves
- Increased number of absences or being late for work
- Changes on work tasks and the standard of it
- Showing less interest in their work they previously enjoyed
- Changes in behaviour, mood or how they interact with colleagues
We know it’s harder to spot if your company is continuing to work from home or if you have introduced a hybrid week. The contact will not be as frequent, and you may not be there when they’re feeling stressed or anxious.
It’s important to regularly ask your employees, how they’re doing and create an environment where they feel comfortable to talk and be honest about their feelings.
Encourage Connectivity And Bring Your Team Together
Ensure everyone in your team feels included, this becomes even more important when not everyone is physically present in the room.
It’s important to try and connect with your employees as best you can. For example, hold team events to brings those who work from home together into the office, or if your company is continuing to work from home or are away from home for business, regular zoom calls are the same.
As well as formal meetings/events arrange informal gatherings, this is a perfect opportunity for your employees to get to know each other and gain trust.
Be A Role Model
Be a role model, display the behaviour you expect from your team. Take care of your mental health and wellbeing and set the right example.
When communicating encourage an open and honest conversation, take proactive measures to make sure they don’t feel alone.
Trust is also an important part of the relationship that you build with your employees. A lack of trust could have a damaging effect on the relationship and the standard of work they complete.
Reassuring your employees will strengthen your relationship to the point where they feel comfortable addressing any issues/concerns with you.
Prioritise Employee Wellbeing With Our Application
Here at Wellspace, we create bespoke health and wellness solutions for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Our innovative employee app and portal allow you to monitor employee wellbeing.
Our Wellness Application allows your employees to track their health and wellbeing, including their sleep, activity levels and mood. Plus, the Online Portal allows you to track employee wellbeing and tailor your activities, health schemes and training based on the needs of your employees.
By reducing stress amongst employees, you will see an improvement in productivity and engagement and a decrease in absenteeism and staff turnover.
If you would like to find out more about Wellspace and the solutions we offer, get in touch. Alternatively, for more advice and tips, head to our blog.
