What Can Managers Do to Encourage Workplace Wellbeing

Implementing wellbeing in the workplace has many benefits, such as increased staff productivity and satisfaction, less sick days, and reduced employee turnover. By considering wellbeing in your organisation, you can create a healthy, positive, and motivated working environment.

As a manager, there are many ways that you can promote and support wellbeing in the workplace, such as:

Looking after your own wellbeing

Leading by example and showing your staff that you take wellbeing seriously can encourage them to do the same.

Showing staff that their wellbeing matters

You can do this by scheduling regular catch-ups with your staff. Let them talk about any difficulties they may be facing and offer help, guidance, or solutions.

Encouraging your staff to take regular breaks throughout the workday will help reduce burnout. This could be as simple as taking a 5-minute break every hour and going for a short walk around the building. Taking time to step away from your desk can help improve physical health and mental clarity.

Recognising the achievements of your staff and showing that you appreciate the work they do will also make them feel valued and motivated. At the end of the day, we are all human.

Noticing the signs of poor mental health

It’s always good to check in and ask how your staff are doing, especially if you notice any negative changes in behaviour. Many people find it difficult to reach out and ask for help, but simply asking someone how they’re feeling can make a big difference. Mental health problems affect everyone differently, so be prepared to adapt your approach to suit the individual.

Early signs of poor mental health can include low mood, poor concentration, and irritability. Having a good understanding of common mental health conditions can help you connect with the staff in your firm who are affected.

Offering resources can also help them manage stress and other mental health concerns. These could include access to an employee assistance program (EAP) or mental health management guides.

Reasonable adjustments in the workplace

A reasonable adjustment is an alteration that enables your staff to carry out work without being at a disadvantage. This could include working from home or hybrid working arrangements, which can also help employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Designing the work environment

A workplace that is well-designed can reduce stress and illness. Good lighting can reduce eye strain, ergonomic furniture can support good posture, and any equipment, such as computers or coffee machines, should be safe to use and not cause any physical strain. If a member of staff is feeling overwhelmed or stressed, having a designated ‘quiet zone’ in your office would enable them to take a quick break or work away from the main office area for a while, to collect themselves.

The Development Zone hosts a range of courses on wellbeing that could help your employees, including ‘Achieving a Work-life Balance’, ‘Burnout’, and ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’.

For more information about the Aviva Development Zone and to sign up for a free trial or a demo, visit www.mydevelopment.zone.