Consider this: the average person will spend a staggering 90,000 hours at work over a lifetime, a third of their life. That's a significant portion of our existence dedicated to our professional endeavours. In this vast expanse of time, employee well-being emerges as not just a matter of concern but a paramount priority for organisations. Ethically and morally, employers should recognise their responsibility to ensure that these hours spent at work are not only productive but also nurturing and fulfilling.
Beyond the ethical dimension, there's a compelling business case for prioritising employee well-being. Why? Studies have shown that higher engagement rates are directly linked to a remarkable 21% higher profitability. Employee well-being isn't merely a gesture of goodwill; it's a strategic imperative that can significantly impact an organisation's bottom line. In this blog, we'll delve into the compelling reasons why employee well-being should be at the forefront of every organisational agenda and explore actionable strategies to foster it.
1. Create a culture of support
A culture of support starts from the top and permeates throughout the organisation. Leaders and managers should actively promote a workplace culture that values employee well-being. Encourage open communication, provide resources for support, and lead by example. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to seek help when needed and feel a stronger sense of belonging.
2. Flexible work arrangements
Forbes claims 98% of workers want to work from home at least some of the time. This statistic underscores the growing demand for flexibility in work arrangements, which not only allows employees to better balance their professional and personal lives but also acknowledges the diverse needs and preferences of the modern workforce. Embracing such flexibility can enhance well-being and boost morale, job satisfaction, and overall productivity, demonstrating that aligning organisational policies with employee preferences is a win-win strategy for both parties.
3. Mental health initiatives
Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being. Organisations should provide access to mental health resources, counselling services, and training programs that promote mental health awareness. Around 78% of all employers offer an EAP (employee assistance program) for their employees, and use of these programs is increasing, with almost 12% of employees accessing programs when available. Yet, beyond the numbers, it is imperative that organisations go further by actively working to dismantle the stigma still associated with mental health issues, thereby cultivating an environment where employees feel safe, supported, and empowered to seek the help they may need.
4. Physical health programs
Implement wellness programs that promote physical health, such as gym memberships, fitness challenges, or ergonomic workspace setups. Encouraging regular exercise, healthy eating, and work-life balance can improve overall physical health and reduce stress.
5. Professional development opportunities
Fostering opportunities for professional growth and development not only enhances Promoting opportunities for continuous professional growth and development serves as a dual benefit for both employees and organisations. Not only does it enhance employees' career prospects and proficiency, but it also significantly contributes to their overall sense of wellbeing. Plus UTS offers a wide range of courses that can help employees upskill in the areas your organisation needs most but also contributes to a more motivated, engaged, and loyal workforce.
6. Workload management
According to McKinsey, burnout, a term coined to describe this pervasive sense of physical and emotional depletion, affects one in four employees on average. To prevent burnout, ensure that employees have a manageable workload and the resources they need to complete tasks. Promote open and transparent communication channels regarding workloads, allowing employees to voice concerns and seek assistance when needed. Encouraging regular breaks and emphasising the importance of taking time off to recharge can go a long way in preserving mental and emotional wellbeing, ultimately fostering a workforce that thrives and contributes positively to your organisation's success.
7. Employee feedback and involvement
Include employees in decision-making processes and gather their feedback on workplace initiatives and policies. Recognising and appreciating employees for their hard work and contributions can boost morale and job satisfaction. Simple gestures of gratitude, awards, or employee recognition programs go a long way in promoting a positive work environment.
A pathway to organisational wellbeing
Employee well-being is more than a responsibility; it's an investment in the success and sustainability of your organisation. Structured professional development opportunities can help create a workplace where employees thrive. Why not speak to Plus UTS about how we can help develop co-designed training programs that improve your organisational wellbeing.
