5 Keys for Positive Workplace Wellbeing

Brought to you in partnership with Thomas

Thomas recently caught up with Alicia Collinson , Senior Associate at Thrive Law, to understand the critical aspects of employee well-being and mental health within organizations. Alicia shared valuable insights into common challenges organizations face and practical tips to overcome them. You can hear more from Alicia in the interview below.

1. What are the most common challenges organizations face when prioritizing mental health and employee well-being?

Organizations often face challenges in gaining support from senior leadership for investing in employee well-being. It's crucial to highlight both the ethical motivations (just wanting to “do the right thing”) and tangible benefits, such as reduced absenteeism and increased productivity. There's also the delicate balance between performance expectations and supporting staff with mental health concerns, necessitating clear boundaries and communication.

Additionally, we’re seeing a common issue with managers overstepping boundaries when trying to support employees’ mental health. Organizations need to clarify responsibilities around mental health support to ensure everyone understands the difference between managerial guidance and professional therapy. Despite pressures, maintaining a focus on wellbeing initiatives is vital for fostering a happy and productive team.

2. In your experience, what are the key factors that contribute to a positive work environment and employee well-being?

In my view, fostering a fundamentally open culture is essential. Imagine if conversations about well-being and mental health were just a natural part of everyday chatter. It makes it so much easier for people to speak up when they're struggling, or things aren't going as expected. Leading from the top plays a big role in this. I'm not saying everyone in the C-suite should share their mental health journey, but little gestures like saying, "This week's been tough, so I'm going for a run, that’s my self-care" can make a big difference.

Communication is another cornerstone. Understanding how others work best and giving them the space to express their needs helps create an environment where everyone can thrive. But here's the thing: we need to be careful not to fall into the trap of toxic positivity. It's not about forcing everyone to be relentlessly positive—it's about creating a space where people can authentically express themselves without judgment. Ultimately, it's about recognizing that we're all human beings with different needs and figuring out how to support each other to be our best selves.

3. How can organizations foster a sense of trust and openness among employees, encouraging them to proactively seek support for their mental health and well-being needs?

To create an atmosphere of trust and openness around mental health and well-being, organizations can take gradual steps to build a supportive environment. This starts with understanding how employees currently feel about discussions about mental health, and then using that information to move towards integrating these conversations into everyday interactions. By establishing clear policies and resources for support, employees feel empowered to seek help when needed. It's all about playing the long game, adapting communication styles over time to make discussions about mental health feel natural and comfortable. Ultimately, it's about finding solutions that fit the unique needs and goals of the organization.

4. What strategies or resources do you recommend for managers and leaders to support the well-being of their team members, especially during times of change or uncertainty?

Amidst times of change or uncertainty, managers and leaders can play a crucial role in supporting their team members' well-being. Prioritizing effective communication helps keep everyone informed and involved, reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of belonging. Providing self-awareness and resilience training equips employees with the tools they need to navigate challenges and bounce back stronger.

Moreover, offering personalized resources, like well-being budgets, shows that their well-being is valued and encourages them to take proactive steps toward self-care. By nurturing a culture of support and individualized care, managers can empower their teams to thrive, even in turbulent times.

5. Looking ahead, what do you see as the future trends or developments in the field of employee wellbeing, and how can organizations prepare to adapt and thrive in this evolving landscape?

Two significant trends are emerging. Firstly, there's a growing awareness and diagnosis of neurodiversity among employees. With more individuals being diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions, organizations must embrace inclusivity by understanding and accommodating diverse needs. This entails implementing necessary adjustments and providing support to create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Another notable trend is the generational shift in workplace expectations, particularly regarding culture and communication. Younger generations bring unique values and preferences, necessitating organizations to adopt policies and bridge intergenerational gaps. To thrive in this evolving landscape, organizations must proactively address these trends by fostering inclusivity, adapting policies, and bridging intergenerational gaps to ensure a supportive and harmonious work environment for all employees.

Summary

Building trust, recognizing members' unique needs, experiences, and perspectives, and preparing for the future are all essential to being a good manager and keeping your team happy, supported, and motivated. Embracing this human-centric approach will give you a team in which everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered.

EdulinX Corporation is proud to partner with Thomas in offering their exceptional products exclusively in Japan. By leveraging Thomas's innovative people science, enhance employee well-being, increase motivation, and provide your team with the support they need to thrive.

Discover how Thomas's solutions can transform your workplace. Contact us today to learn how we can help boost your team's performance and well-being.

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