The concept of employee wellbeing has been around for a long time, but it has evolved over time to reflect changes in societal values, workplace practices, and our understanding of human health and wellness. One of the earliest origins of the concept of employee wellbeing can be traced back to the industrial revolution, when workers were subjected to long hours, low pay, and dangerous working conditions. Working conditions since fighting for better working conditions has long since changed!
THANK GOODNESS!
These days the need to focus on employee wellbeing has expanded to include not just physical health, but also mental health, social wellbeing, and overall life satisfaction.
Employers are now recognising that employees are more than just workers, and that their wellbeing is influenced by factors both inside and outside of work.
Today, employee wellbeing is seen as a critical component of organisational success, with employers investing in programs and initiatives to promote employee health, happiness, and engagement. Employee wellbeing can be considered a form of corporate social responsibility, since the corporate considers the impact of its activities on society and the environment.
We summarise the top five initiatives corporations can implement to improve employee wellbeing.
Flexible Work Arrangements: One of the most effective ways to improve employee wellbeing is by offering flexible work arrangements such as telecommuting or flexible schedules. Since COVID19 many companies have adjusted to hybrid working models and we cannot lie, this allows employees to balance their work and personal lives, reducing stress and improving their mental health.
Health and Wellness Programs: We seen a few companies offer health and wellness programs such as gym memberships, yoga classes, or nutrition counselling even the odd office neck massage from the local therapist. These initiatives promote physical health and can help reduce stress levels among employees.
Mental Health Support: Providing mental health support is crucial for employee wellbeing. Corporations can offer employee assistance programs, access to counselling services, or mental health days to ensure that employees have the necessary support to manage their mental health.
Employee Recognition: Feeling appreciated releases happy hormones, dopamine, so recognition and appreciation can boost employee morale and improve overall wellbeing.
Career Development Opportunities: Maybe a little outside our 'wheel house' at CIRCLES but offering career development opportunities such as training and professional development programs can help employees grow their skills and improve their job satisfaction. This can lead to greater engagement and wellbeing among employees.
By implementing these initiatives, corporations can create a work environment that values employee wellbeing, leading to higher employee satisfaction, better retention rates, and improved overall performance.
Sometimes, there are things that corporate can do an invest in that can help their staff. We found this through sharing rides, connecting with colleagues = dopamine, a lift to work = reduces commute stress and loneliness and sharing your petrol = some small passive income to be made.
Measuring employee wellbeing can help employers identify areas where they can improve the work environment and identify sources of stress and burnout, such as high workloads, lack of resources, or poor management, and take steps to address them.
Doing something about your employees is the first step.
Let's!
Alvira Fisher
Co Founder CIRCLES
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