How to foster a culture that supports well-being in the workplace
With the right approach, you can reap the benefits of a cohesive work environment, where the team is motivated, committed, and performing at their best. Taking the first step toward fostering a culture of well-being in the workplace is easier by exploring this essential guide.
Many people prioritize personal well-being by choosing healthier habits and food choices, in addition to exercising. But how can this extend to the workplace?
It is typical for most people to spend a large amount of time at work, with the average employee spending eight or more hours a day in the office. As such, there has been a growing expectation from employees that their employers provide them with opportunities to support mental health and general well-being at work. It's a fact that companies that prioritize employee well-being are more likely to attract and retain top talent, which can provide a competitive advantage in the business landscape.
Companies looking to offer spaces and amenities to support mental health and well-being in the office should start with a strategy tailored to the type of employees they hire. It will be helpful to understand the elements that matter most to the workforce, as this can guide where a company should focus its resources in creating a wellness program that meets employee expectations.
Today, it is recognized that team leaders and business owners are making efforts to promote a sense of belonging among their employees. However, it has become increasingly challenging with the current hybrid work situation. Organizations are increasingly struggling to balance flexible working arrangements with implementing remote policies, which can be negative in the long term as opportunities for employees to experience company culture in person are reduced. In any case, it is essential to understand that company culture does not disappear when the office is emptier and continues to evolve.
By 2024, one of the biggest challenges companies face is connecting work culture and remote work, generating a shared cultural experience. With the rise of remote work, the key is to focus on meeting human needs for health, productivity, creativity, social interaction, and inspiration; After all, this new era of work and technology offers endless possibilities.
Main elements to take into account for a healthy and happy office.
Flexibility with work schedules:
Flexible schedules are key to promoting mental health and job satisfaction at work. Offering remote work and non-traditional schedules encourages work-life balance. Most workers today consider flexible schedules to be one of the main reasons for staying with a company.
Opt for natural:
Connections with nature at work increase well-being and productivity. Employees today prefer natural light to improve their satisfaction. Just as it is proven that outdoor work spaces significantly improve well-being and productivity.
Rest and disconnection areas:
The demand for workspaces with break areas is increasing. Current employees agree that performance is better when there are spaces available in the office for rest or total disconnection.
Healthy options:
Employees seek greater well-being with healthier eating options and active breaks. Encouraging walking meetings can provide active breaks, regardless of office layout or location.
Successfully adapting to the modern era of workplaces requires customized solutions that enable employees to create a sense of belonging with inspiring and innovative spaces. Despite the challenges of recent years, technology has always allowed rapid adaptation, and with the right tools and strategies, promoting well-being and health in the office is becoming easier.