Ever wondered what makes a workplace truly thrive? It's more than just hitting targets and deadlines. Welcome to the world of employee well-being – a dynamic concept that's like a puzzle with many pieces. From physical health to emotional satisfaction, it's a mix of factors that shape how employees feel and perform on the job. Think about it as a holistic recipe for a happy and productive work life.
In this blog, we're going to delve into the seven key pillars of employee well-being, each contributing a vital element to create a fulfilling workplace. Some are even common workplace issues that you can tackle in order to promote well-being.
So, grab a cup of coffee and let's explore why this multi-faceted approach matters more than ever!
What are the 7 pillars of employee well-being?
Imagine employee well-being as a sturdy table with seven solid legs. Each leg represents a pillar of well-being, and together they form a strong foundation for a thriving workplace. These pillars encompass various aspects like;
- Physical health
- Emotional resilience
- Social connections
- Career growth
- Financial stability
- A sense of purpose
- Supportive work environment.
Just like a table wouldn't stand without all its legs, a balanced and vibrant work environment relies on all these interconnected pillars to ensure employees are not only content but also motivated, engaged, and ready to give their best.
Physical well-being
Your employees physical well-being is the foundation of their overall wellness. We're talking about how their bodies are doing and their ability to stay healthy. There are a few key things to think about:
You know how they say "you are what you eat"? Well, that's true! Providing employees with good, nutritious food and helping them learn about healthy eating habits can really boost their physical well-being. By offering cheap/free access to fruits and veg throughout their working day, you’re giving them the fuel they need to feel energetic and stay strong and healthy.
Staying active is a big deal too. Encouraging employees to get moving regularly is super important. Not only does it help them manage their weight, but it also does wonders for their heart health, muscles, and even their mood. Perhaps your employee welcome package could include a year's gym membership?
Oh, and sleep – can't forget that! Getting enough quality sleep is like pressing the reset button for both body and mind. When people don't sleep well, it can mess up their productivity, make them stressed, and even lead to health issues. Some companies are cool about this and support good sleep habits and flexible work hours.
Surf Office’s top tip!
Flexible breaks for movement: According to research, taking regular breaks from mental tasks can give the brain time to process and prepare for new tasks. With that in mind, encourage short, regular breaks throughout the day for employees to stretch, walk around, or do quick exercises. This helps break up sedentary periods and keeps their energy levels up.
Emotional well-being
Now this is a tricky one! But never fear; we're here to explain exactly what this means.
When your team's emotional needs are taken care of, they're more likely to be jazzed up and motivated. You know that saying a happy worker is a productive worker? Exactly that! If bosses show they care about how their crew is feeling, it builds trust and this cozy feeling of "I can be myself here." That means folks are cool with speaking their minds and feeling free to come up with new, innovative ideas.
When emotions are on the up and up, job satisfaction goes through the roof. Plus, people stick around longer. It's like hitting the jackpot: you get to keep your talented bunch and they're amped to give it their all.
When emotional well-being is a front-burner thing, bosses can spot where the team rocks and where they might need a hand. Oh, and when feedback comes wrapped in a "Hey, we're all in this together" package, it's a whole lot easier to swallow.
Surf Office top tip!
One-on-one time: One awesome move a manager can make is to set up regular one-on-one check-ins with each team member. In fact, 89% of HR workers agreed that ongoing feedback and check ins have a positive impact on employees. This dedicated time allows employees to share how they're doing, both professionally and emotionally.
It also gives the opportunity for the employee to air any concerns they may have in complete privacy.
Financial well-being
Financial well-being matters a lot for employees' overall well-being. When people are stressed about money, it affects their mental and physical health, making work harder. But if companies help with financial challenges, it eases stress, boosting focus and productivity.
Feeling secure financially also keeps employees engaged and happy, reducing absenteeism and turnover. It's a win-win: employees feel valued, and companies have a more motivated workforce.
Plus, offering financial education and support shows that the company cares beyond just the job, creating a positive workplace culture. So, taking care of employees' financial well-being isn't just a nice thing to do—it's smart business.
Surf Office top tip!
Host financial wellness workshops. Invite experts to guide employees on budgeting, saving, and managing debt. Empowering your team with financial skills reduces stress, boosts productivity, and shows your commitment to their well-being.
Social well-being
Social well-being is a big deal when it comes to how employees feel overall. We're social creatures, so having good relationships and feeling connected matters.
Chatting with coworkers and having buddies at work can boost your mood and reduce stress. Feeling like you fit in and belong boosts self-esteem and job happiness. Plus, when we get along with our colleagues, we're more likely to work together well, share ideas, and do better at our jobs.
It's not just about work either – having friends at work can encourage healthier habits and help us handle tough times. Basically, feeling socially supported is like a superpower for handling life's ups and downs.
So, workplaces that encourage positive social interactions and a sense of community tend to have happier, more engaged employees.
Surf Office’s top tip
Take your team on a team-building adventure off-site:
Elevate your team's social well-being, and join us on an offsite retreat to unwind and connect. Break barriers, build trust, and boost morale through shared experiences. Let's create a more cohesive team and a positive work culture together. Ready to transform?
Surf Office is your key to unlocking the ultimate team-building retreat. We specialize in curating exceptional off-site experiences that cater to your team's unique needs and goals. From serene coastal getaways to inspiring mountain retreats, our diverse range of locations ensures there's a perfect fit for every team.
We offer:
- Carefully selected venues conducive to productivity and relaxation.
- Seamless organization and logistics, so you can focus on what truly matters – your team's growth.
- A chance to overcome team-work challenges.
Contact us today to get started on your journey to employee well-being heaven!
Career well-being
Career well-being means how happy and balanced people feel about their jobs. As a manager, you need to know that caring about your team's career well-being isn't just a nice thing – it's a smart move that helps both your employees and your company.
When employees feel good about their work, it's a win-win. They're not only more excited and ready to work, but they also do better in their jobs. When you make an environment that supports their career well-being, it helps keep your team together and even gives them a sense of job security.
When your team members see that their bosses care about their growth, they feel safer about their jobs. It's not just about having a steady job; it's also about knowing their skills are valued and their career can grow.
By making career well-being a priority, you're making work better for your team and also making them less worried about their jobs. Especially when times are uncertain, employees who feel their careers are looked after are more likely to stay with the company, handle changes well, and help the company succeed.
So, as a manager, remember that focusing on career well-being isn't just for now – it's like an investment in your team's future that helps both them and the company, even when things are a bit unsure.
Surf Office’s top tip!
Mentorship Pairing: Pair experienced employees with those who are seeking career growth and development. This mentorship can provide a platform for sharing insights, advice, and guidance according to a 2016 study undertaken by Deloitte. Experienced employees can offer valuable perspectives and share their own career journeys. This not only promotes skill development but also creates a sense of camaraderie and support within the team.
Environment well-being
Environmental well-being refers to the quality of the physical surroundings in which people work and live. As a manager, understanding its importance can greatly impact your team's overall health, happiness, and productivity.
Creating a positive work environment isn't just about providing ergonomic chairs and good lighting. It extends to factors like air quality, noise levels, access to nature, and overall workspace design. When employees are in a space that promotes their well-being, it can lead to several benefits for both them and your organization.
First off, a healthy work environment contributes to better physical health. Improved air quality, comfortable temperatures, and proper lighting can reduce instances of headaches, fatigue, and other discomforts. Employees will feel more energized and less prone to ailments, resulting in fewer sick days and increased overall attendance.
Moreover, a pleasant workspace has a direct impact on mental health. Natural light and greenery have been proven to reduce stress and boost mood. When your employees are less stressed, they're more likely to engage with their tasks creatively and productively. A positive atmosphere can foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among team members, leading to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates.
Surf Office’s top tip!
Focus on the little things: You don't need a big budget to make a difference. Simple changes like rearranging desks to maximize natural light, adding a few potted plants, or creating designated quiet zones can significantly impact the work environment. These small adjustments show your commitment to employee well-being and can create a more pleasant and productive workspace. Remember, it's the thoughtful gestures that often matter the most.
Purpose-driven well-being
Think about purpose-driven well-being as a special point where an employee's feeling of purpose and overall well-being meet. As a manager, you do more than just steer the ship – you also light up your team's excitement so they bring their best to work.
Even though you, as the owner, might be really excited about the company's goals, your employees might not feel the same way automatically. This is where the manager steps in. Purpose-driven well-being is like a magical mix that not only takes care of your team's mental and emotional health but also boosts their motivation and how involved they are.
When employees feel their work has a purpose, they're not just doing it for the paycheck; they're contributing to something bigger. This way of thinking makes their tasks more meaningful. As a manager, you have the power to unlock this feeling. By matching their strengths and interests with the company's goals, you can light a spark of excitement that makes them look forward to work every day.
Remember, it's not only about the money; it's also about making a place where each team member feels important for what they bring. That means knowing their dreams, recognizing what they achieve, and giving them chances to grow in ways that fit with their personal and work goals.
Surf Office’s top tip!
Monthly recognition meetings: A recent survey showed that 39% of employees felt that they didn’t receive enough recognition. With this in mind, try setting up meetings every month to celebrate how each team member's work makes a real difference in the company's success. After the meeting, send a friendly email to say thanks and show how important their efforts are. This helps everyone see the connection between their hard work and the company's achievements. It brings a sense of purpose, happiness, and pride to the team.
