We spend a third of our adult lives at work, and while it is a necessity in order to be a self-sufficient human being, the tide is turning on the idea that we should put up with poor working conditions and be thankful for a job. In this blog post we will be looking at how Positive work environments and a culture in which workers can thrive is good news for the employee and business alike, as well as offering up tips on how to improve wellbeing in the workplace.
Why is Wellbeing in the Workplace Important?
Workplace wellbeing is more than just a buzzword; it’s a crucial factor in the success of any business. Studies have shown that employees who feel valued, supported, and healthy are more likely to be productive, engaged, and loyal.
But don’t just take our word for it. Here are some of the key benefits of prioritising workplace wellbeing, with the statistics to back them up:
Increased Productivity
- Employees who prioritise their health are less likely to take sick days. A study by the World Health Organisation found that investing in workplace health programs can reduce absenteeism by up to 40%.
- Healthy employees are more likely to be mentally sharp and focused. Research suggests that employees who exercise regularly are 26% less likely to experience fatigue.
Improved Employee Morale
- Employees who feel valued and supported are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs. A study by Gallup found that companies with a strong focus on employee wellbeing have 59% lower turnover rates.
- Engaged employees (especially if they feel their contributions are actioned and appreciated) are more productive and committed to their work. Research suggests that companies with high employee engagement rates experience 21% higher profitability.
Enhanced Company Reputation
- A company with a positive reputation for employee wellbeing is more likely to attract top talent. A study by Glassdoor (where many people research potential workplaces) found that 77% of job seekers consider a company’s benefits and perks when evaluating job offers.
- Happy employees are more likely to provide excellent customer service. A study by the American Customer Satisfaction Index found that companies with higher employee satisfaction scores also have higher customer satisfaction ratings.
The Importance Of Good Facilities Within The Workplace
There are fewer places that we feel more vulnerable in than while using the facilities, and even in today’s modern world toilet issues are one of the remaining taboos. In fact, many people cite embarrassing washroom set ups and poor washroom services as one of the biggest stressors of working in an office or shared work space. You can ensure that this is not a problem for your employees by maintaining good washrooms, with a regular cleaning schedule and by keeping it fully stocked and in good working order.
Doing so will not only prevent any embarrassment and issues from arising, but it will also show that you care about your current employees and help attract potential workers in the future.
Sanitary bins are a legal requirement within the workplace and should be maintained and emptied by a reputable sani bin collection service.
How Pets Can Help Improve Worker Wellbeing
In a world of hybrid work set-ups and the possibility of working from home, many offices are doing everything they can to lure people back into the workplace. This includes offering solutions to problems that may arise from being out of the house all day: bring your pet to work with you! While this may not be possible for every office space, having a furry or feathered friend at work does have some surprising benefits (other than merely boosting your instagram account – everyone loves a dog post!).
Pets can be more than just furry companions; they can also be valuable assets for wellbeing in the workplace. Studies have shown that having a pet present can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase productivity. Interacting with animals can lower cortisol levels and reduce stress and help to Improve your mood. In times of stress, access to a pet can provide companionship and emotional support.
While you think sitting near an adorable cat or dog might prove a distraction, the opposite is actually true: a more relaxed and enjoyable work environment can lead to higher productivity. And if you work in a creative industry, you are in luck. Animals, with their innately different lives can inspire creativity and spark new ideas.
Of course, you would have to check that no one is allergic and limit the number of non-humans in the office so that work can continue uninterrupted, but really there doesn’t seem to be a downside to having an adorable dog in the office with you. Here’s the VR Sani-Co wellbeing Manager – Rufus.
How To Improve Wellbeing In The Workplace
So you’ve put in place a bring your pet to work scheme and your toilet facilities are the best in the business, but is there anything else you can do to improve the wellbeing – both mental and physical- of your workforce?
Here are a few ideas for long term strategies for supporting your team:
Encourage work-life balance
Promote a healthy work-life balance by offering flexible work arrangements such as hybrid schedules that include options for working from home where possible, or 4 day work weeks where the hours are extended on office days. When they are in the office, make sure that employees are encouraged to take breaks and that lunch times are sacred blocks of time where meetings cannot be booked.
This work-life balance can be felt most apparently in a way that a workplace deals with holiday booking. Make the process as simple and transparent as possible, especially if your workforce includes parents who may have to take the same days off every year or need to leave the office at a moment’s notice in times of emergency.
Foster a positive work culture
This should go without saying, but we are going to say it anyway: your employees are not children, they can be trusted to get their work done, regardless of if you are in the room or even in the same town. You hired them for their skills and you need to trust that they can do them. No one works well when being watched and it is up to you as their boss to create an environment where they can do their best work and upskill where necessary, and this will look different for every employee. Create a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and respected.
Create a wellness program
Offer employees access to health and wellness resources, such as stress management workshops, discounted or onsite fitness classes and healthy eating initiatives. Cycle to work schemes are a wonderful example of this and can also help with workplaces that have limited parking.
Final Thoughts
Whatever sector you are in, it is easy to get swept away in the busy day to day workings and forget the bigger picture – your team of superheroes who make everything happen.
By investing in workplace wellbeing, you are making a strategic decision that can lead to numerous benefits, including increased productivity, improved employee morale, and enhanced company reputation. By prioritising the health and happiness of their employees, companies such as yours can create a more positive and sustainable work environment.
