How Managers Can Support Employees When Grieving During Challenging Times

Losing a loved one or someone close to you is never an easy period because of the emotions that go into it for the bereaved. That sense of loss and the shock that accompanies it can be difficult to sink in.

We all grieve the loss of a loved one, friend, or colleague differently. Some never really get over it as they often come with guilt, regret, anger, or even despair especially when they feel they weren’t always there for the deceased that it can eventually lead to depression.

The pandemic hasn’t made it any easier either, as not only are you engulfed with the sadness of losing a dear one, you still couldn’t be there to attend their funeral to bid them farewell because of the lockdown. In cases where you are fortunate to be among the few to attend the funeral, you are not able to feel that comfort and soothing relief of being hugged by other sympathizers because of social distancing.

However, apart from the uneasiness of losing someone dear to you, there is still your job on the other end of reality. It is challenging to be at your best at work when you’ve just lost someone dear to you. But how are leaders and managers at the workplace helping their employees to grieve?

?Leaders in organizations have to awaken to the realization that work and life always intersect. Helping their employees shoulder the pain of grief reminds them that they are valued and cared for.

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Acknowledge the employee’s loss?

When an employee experiences a personal loss, their manager needs to acknowledge their loss. This can be done in a variety of ways.

It can be by sending them a card, flowers, or gifts. It could also be as subtle as writing them a note or simply saying, “I’m sorry for your loss.”

It is also important to allow the employee to take time off if needed and be understanding if they cannot work as usual. Often, some organizations just say to the bereaved, “take some time off,” and come back when you are ready. While the intention could have been a good one, it often puts the bereaved in a tense position as they are unsure how long enough to rush back to work without really getting mentally in shape.

?Leaders can support their employees better by having flexible policies in place that accommodate employees when they suffer the loss of a loved one. “Take some time off” may sound good, but it is not always enough.

Below are some of the ways that managers can help their employees get through the difficulties of losing someone dear:?

1. Provide support

In addition to acknowledging the employee’s loss, it is also important to provide support. This can include listening when the employee wants to talk, providing resources such as a grief support group or therapist, and allowing the employee to take time off as needed. Managers can also help by providing work tasks that may help distract the employee from their grief.

?2. Be understanding

Grieving is a difficult process, and it can take time for employees to return to their usual selves. It is important for managers to be understanding and patient and to give the employee space if needed. Additionally, managers should avoid asking too many questions or making assumptions about how the employee is feeling.

3. Be empathetic and human

While this may seem obvious, there are times when you need to be a boss giving critical feedback, and others when you need to be a human. It means letting the employee know you’re there for them. Business leaders must make understanding grief part of other training that employees get on emotional intelligence, mindfulness, etc.?

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