The Importance of Employees’ Wellbeing at Work

The contemporary work environment is a complex ecosystem that has become significantly more stressful as organisations focus more and more on productivity and efficiency. As our pace of life picks up, it is important to reevaluate our well-being and connect with people we care about.

Referencing the book “Wellbeing at Work” by Jim Clifton and Jim Harter, we explore the latest trends and research in employee engagement and wellbeing, shedding light on the intricate relationship between mental health, productivity, and organisational success. The insights gleaned from these studies will equip us with the knowledge to support our team in every facet of their lives, from physical health to financial security.

Job satisfaction is a vital ingredient for a long, happy life

Research suggests that work, when satisfying and enjoyable, can be a protective factor for our wellbeing. When we derive enjoyment from our work, it enhances our daily lives and could significantly impact our longevity, as it keeps our minds active and gives us a sense of purpose. Therefore, it is crucial to foster a work environment that promotes satisfaction and enjoyment, as it can substantially benefit our wellbeing.

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Friendships at work enhance wellbeing and productivity

One significant area where leaders can positively impact is fostering social wellbeing among their employees. Social well-being is typically gauged by the number of meaningful friendships an individual has. At first glance, friendship and work may seem unrelated, but they are, in fact, closely intertwined.

The presence of a best friend at work does more than just provide a positive and energising presence in the office. Research indicates that employees perform better and deliver superior results when they work alongside someone they consider a close friend.

Building relationships and friendships with colleagues at work is more than just a nice gesture. It can strategically improve wellbeing, increase productivity, and positively impact the organisation’s overall success.

Financial security, not income, boosts wellbeing

Financial wellbeing is a critical component of overall wellbeing and is an area where many individuals could benefit from improvement. Low financial wellbeing is the primary contributor to daily stress and worry. This stress and worry can significantly impact an employee’s ability to perform at their highest potential.

Financial wellbeing is not synonymous with a high income; it is more accurately defined by a high level of financial security. Individuals who feel financially secure believe they have sufficient funds to fulfil most of their desires in their daily lives. Their sense of security stems from their ability to pay their bills each month without worry and forms a level of comfort that allows them to avoid constant preoccupation with money.

Employers could provide financial planning tools and savings mechanisms or even bring in financial advisors to offer guidance. By doing so, they can help their employees achieve a sense of financial security, which can significantly improve their overall wellbeing and productivity.

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Workforce health is pivotal to organisational resilience

The vitality of an organisation is intrinsically linked to the energy and health of its workforce. Therefore, it is imperative to promote healthy habits at work.

Sufficient sleep is a fundamental aspect of a healthy lifestyle. Leaders should exemplify healthy habits. Instead of working late into the night, they should leave the office at a reasonable hour, ensuring they return the next day refreshed and ready to face new challenges.

Managers should engage in regular dialogues about the importance of physical activity. Research demonstrates that exercising just two days a week can significantly enhance happiness and drastically reduce stress levels.

Organisations can also redesign the workplace to encourage movement. Studies reveal that sitting for more than four hours at a time is associated with a higher risk of obesity, even among individuals who exercise regularly.

Leadership quality is pivotal to workplace wellbeing

The wellbeing of employees within an organisation can be significantly influenced by the company culture.

The first step towards fostering a culture of wellbeing involves a critical examination of the organisation’s rules. It is essential to assess whether the company’s policies encourage or discourage various aspects of wellbeing. Another crucial factor is communication, particularly the messages disseminated by the leadership team. These messages must align with and promote a culture of well-being.

Specifically, there are four key elements that employees require from their managers, and the provision of these can greatly impact their sense of wellbeing.

1. Employees seek a sense of hope from their leaders. They need reassurance that there is a future plan in place to improve the current situation.

2. Employees require a sense of stability from their leaders. They need assurance that they will be provided with the necessary resources to continue performing their jobs effectively.

3. Trust is another crucial factor. Employees need to feel that they are receiving pertinent information in a timely manner, even if the information is negative.

4. During times when their wellbeing is compromised, employees require compassion from their leaders. Research indicates that employees experience less worry and feel more confident in their roles when they believe their leaders genuinely care about their wellbeing.

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Employee wellbeing is key to organisational success

The performance of employees is not isolated from their personal lives. When they step into the office, they carry with them the experiences, emotions, and circumstances of their personal lives. It is a well-observed fact that when employees are content and fulfilled in their personal lives, their engagement and productivity at work are significantly enhanced. Conversely, personal stress and difficulties can negatively impact their work performance. This underscores the importance for leaders to foster a culture of wellbeing within the workplace. When employees thrive, the business thrives in tandem.

The concept of wellbeing extends beyond physical health. It encompasses a holistic view of the employee’s life, including their mental and emotional health, financial stability, and sense of purpose and fulfilment. By creating a supportive and nurturing environment, leaders can help employees navigate personal challenges and maintain a positive outlook, which in turn contributes to their overall productivity and engagement at work.

This article is co-created by NexPage, a translated book summary app, and CareersCompass by MyCareersFuture.