In order to combat high stress levels and improve overall employee wellbeing, here are three simple yet effective strategies that cater to the diverse needs of employees.
1. Value work-life balance
31% of UK employees feel that maintaining a good work-life balance is their top motivating factor at work. Despite this, a quarter of professionals are currently unhappy with their lack of balance, highlighting the pressures of an ‘always on’ culture as taking away from their much needed downtime.
Availability of advanced technology has added to this lack of balance, eradicating the concept of a 9-5 role. Employees are now able to connect anywhere, at any time, making it difficult to switch off. HR professionals need to focus their efforts on reversing any negative impacts of technology, to ensure that work doesn’t take over employees’ personal lives.
2. Be flexible
Another way to improve this balance is to encourage flexible working. 29% of UK workers put the ability to work when and where they want as a priority. Offering this flexibility is valuable, not only because it can achieve a healthy work-life balance, but it signals a level of trust and confidence between the employee and employer – something critical for workplace satisfaction.
In order to facilitate flexibility, HR should look to introduce flexible working policies that take into consideration external employee commitments, such as childcare responsibilities, which may impact employee working hours.
3. Reward with stability
Employee benefits that look after long term financial welfare are another top motivating factor for a quarter of UK employees (24%). This doesn’t come as a surprise, since ultimately all workers seek job security and financial stability.
In a climate of an ever-increasing retirement age and rising house prices, UK employees are seeking out ways to enhance their financial stability. Whether it’s guidance on auto-enrolment, a generous pension package, childcare vouchers or a car allowance, there are numerous options to contribute to the long-term financial wellbeing of your staff.
It is undeniable that wellbeing impacts staff motivation and employee engagement, and a lack of it can lead to a drop in productivity, an overstretched workforce and ultimately lower profitability. By focussing efforts on your workforce’s wellbeing, your employees can flourish and achieve their maximum potential – for both their success and that of the wider business.