Why Prioritising Staff Wellbeing is Essential for a Thriving Workplace

In today’s fast-paced work environment, the importance of staff wellbeing stands out more than ever. Many organisations may still consider wellbeing as a mere perk, but the truth is, it is vital for creating a successful workplace. A flourishing workplace actively supports its employees' needs, creating a balanced environment that boosts cohesion, productivity, satisfaction, and retention.

You may ask why staff wellbeing should be seen as a necessity, not just an option. The benefits of a robust wellbeing strategy go well beyond the individual; they enhance the entire organisation, building a culture of resilience and innovation.

The Direct Impact on Productivity

Staff who feel valued show higher engagement levels. A supportive workplace environment sparks creativity and initiative, which translates directly into increased productivity. For example, a study from Gallup found that highly engaged teams are approximately 20% more productive than their disengaged counterparts.

On the flip side, an unhappy workforce can sharply decrease morale. The financial impact is significant. Poor mental wellbeing is estimated to cost UK employers between £42 billion and £45 billion each year due to reduced productivity (presenteeism), employee sickness absence, and staff turnover (Deloitte, 2020).

Reduced Absenteeism and Employee Turnover

Focusing on employee wellbeing can lead to fewer health-related absences. Companies with effective wellbeing programs have reported a reduction in sick days by as much as 37% (Kaspin, Gorman, Miller, 2013). When employees feel well supported, they are more likely to be proactive with enhancing their health and can access early care before significant deterioration, reducing the number of days away from work.

This reduction in absenteeism also enhances team dynamics. With consistent engagement in the workplace, collaboration improves, leading to innovative solutions. This allows for more cohesive team projects and impactful outcomes.

Enhanced Employee Engagement and Loyalty

Investing in staff wellbeing builds loyalty too. When employees feel their employer cares about their mental and physical health, they respond with increased engagement. A 2022 C-Suite study by Deloitte found that 57% of staff were considering leaving their jobs for ones that were more considerate of their wellbeing. Furthermore, 70% of executives said the same (Hatfield, Fisher & Silvergate, 2022). It's clear that even the most senior employees are also impacted by an organisation's commitment to wellbeing.

Some, who might see investing in staff wellbeing as a costly luxury might ask - Is 'disengagement' really worth the spend with limited financial resources? A disengaged workforce can be highly problematic. Like a harmful and infectious virus to a healthy organism, disengagement can spread. It can create a negative and toxic work environment that stifles success. Therefore, fostering a supportive atmosphere where employees feel valued and compassionately cared for is essential for cultivating engagement and loyalty.

The Ripple Effect on Company Culture

Prioritising staff wellbeing develops a positive company culture that attracts top talent. In a competitive hiring market context, candidates actively seek organisations known for caring about their employees. Making wellbeing a priority can set a company apart as a desirable place to work, connect and grow.

Additionally, when employee needs are thoughtfully addressed, it nurtures an inclusive culture. Companies that support their employees create environments that thrive - where diverse perspectives flourish, leading to innovative ideas. For instance, organisations that focus on staff wellness report significantly higher levels of innovation (Wang, Chen, Wang & Xie 2022).

Practical Strategies for Prioritising Wellbeing

Fostering wellbeing requires actionable strategies. Some initiatives to consider include:

1. Mental Health Resources: Depending on the size of the organisation, offer access to mental health support like therapy, clinical psychology, wellness apps, mental health days off. Make it easy for employees to seek help without stigma. Leaders will need to model their commitment to their own wellbeing to change culture. Leaders should also have sufficient knowledge about mental health and trauma at work.

   
   

2. Flexible Work Arrangements: Encourage people to work and live in ways that honor their life circumstances, values and priorities. This can include flexible work schedules, remote work options and planned time off for important events or attending wellbeing appointments.
   

3. Compassion and Transparency from Leaders: Kindness and timely, honest communication from leaders is important to help employees feel safe and supported at work.

   The above are only a few considerations. There are many other considerations including supporting maintaining dignity and respect at work, preventing mistreatment or discrimination and building teams with psychological safety.

   
   

By implementing these and other psychologically informed strategies, organisations create a culture where wellbeing is prioritised, resulting in a more engaged and productive workforce.

The Long-term Benefits of a Wellbeing-Focused Workplace

Meaningful and long-term investment in staff wellbeing offers lasting rewards. Research shows that companies that prioritise wellbeing frequently enjoy better financial performance and a strengthened brand reputation (De Neve, Kaats, Ward, 2024).

Additionally, psychologically healthy workplaces tend to be more adaptable and innovative. In rapidly changing markets, staff who feel supported can embrace new challenges effectively, leading to sustained growth and success.

Wrapping Up

In summary, prioritising staff wellbeing is essential for cultivating a thriving workplace. The wide-ranging benefits - from increased productivity to higher employee loyalty - highlight its critical role in organisational success.

As organisations navigate the nuances of modern work life, taking a proactive stance on employee wellbeing is crucial. When employers recognise and invest in the health of their staff, it leads to a healthier workplace for all.

Focusing on staff wellbeing is not just about improving morale; it’s about building a more successful future for the entire organisation. References:

Deloitte. (2020). Mental health and employers: refreshing the case for investment. Available at: https://www.deloitte.com/uk/en/services/consulting/research/mental-health-and-employers-refreshing-the-case-for-investment.html De Neve, J. E., Kaats, M., & Ward, G. (2023). Workplace wellbeing and firm performance.

Gallup (2023). The benefits of employee engagement. Available at: https://www.gallup.com/workplace/236927/employee-engagement-drives-growth.aspx Kaspin, L. C., Gorman, K. M., & Miller, R. M. (2013). Systematic review of employer-sponsored wellness strategies and their economic and health-related outcomes. Population health management, 16(1), 14-21.

Steve Hatfield, Jen Fisher, and Paul Silvergate, The C-suite’s role in well-being, Deloitte Insights, June 22, 2022.

Wang, H., Chen, X., Wang, H., & Xie, M. (2022). Employee innovative behavior and workplace wellbeing: Leader support for innovation and coworker ostracism as mediators. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 101419