Ask the HR Department: Everybody is talking about employee well-being. How important is it?

By HR and health & safety consultancy Peninsula Canada 

Supporting the wellbeing of employees is crucial and plays a major role in creating a healthy and productive work environment. Not only does it improve the overall health of an employee but can also bring about beneficial business outcomes such as improved job performance, increased productivity, and lower levels of employee burnout.

By supporting employee wellbeing, organizations can help reduce absenteeism and increase on-the-job efficiency. This can lead to a more consistent and productive workflow. Investing in employee wellbeing can result in cost savings for organizations. By reducing turnover, absenteeism, and healthcare costs associated with poor employee health, organizations can save money in the long run.

Here are some strategies and initiatives that employers can implement to support employee wellbeing:

Promote work-life balance. Encourage employees to set boundaries between work and personal life. If feasible, offer flexible work hours or remote work options.

Mental health support. Provide access to mental health resources such as employee assistance programs or counseling services. Promote awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health challenges.

Physical health initiatives. Offer wellness programs that promote physical fitness, healthy eating, and stress management.

Recognition and appreciation. Acknowledge and appreciate employee’s hard work and achievements regularly. Implement peer-to-peer recognition to foster a positive work culture.

Clear communication. Maintain transparent communication about company goals, changes, and expectations.

Professional development opportunities. Invest in the professional development of staff by providing opportunities for training, workshops, and skill-building activities. This shows commitment to their growth and helps them stay engaged and motivated.

When employees feel productive, it leads to enhanced employee morale and job satisfaction. And when employees perceive that their requirements are addressed and their wellbeing is taken into account, they are more inclined to find contentment in their roles, which subsequently fosters heightened loyalty and reduced turnover rates.

Peninsula is a trusted HR and health and safety advisory company, serving over 6,000 small businesses across Canada. Clients are supported with ongoing updates of their workplace documentation and policies as legislation changes. Additionally, clients benefit from access to a 24/7 employer HR and OHS advice line and coverage on legal through the Peninsula Protect service promise. 

https://hardlines.ca/wp-content/themes/hardlines-responsive