How Employers Can Promote a Better Work-Life Balance
A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that nearly 60% of Americans say that work is a significant source of stress in their lives. What’s more, 40% of respondents said that they do not have a good work-life balance. These statistics are troubling, to say the least.
As an employer, it’s your responsibility to create a work environment that is conducive to your employees’ well-being. Promoting a healthy work-life balance is one way to do that. In this blog post, we’re not only going to explore why it matters, but also detail ten ways in which employers can look to promote a better work-life balance among their employees.
Why it’s Vital for Employers to Care About their Employees’ Wellbeing
Taking good care of employees is beneficial for employers, not only in terms of avoiding costly lawsuits or boosting morale, but also by creating a workplace that fosters productivity and performance. Employers who prioritize employee wellbeing make sure they have an environment where everyone feels truly valued and appreciated. When employees feel like their physical and mental health are being looked after, it has been proven to reduce absenteeism, improve retention rates and increase motivation.
It is increasingly important for businesses to invest time into creating a healthier working atmosphere that has a positive attitude towards work-life balance in order to minimize work-related stress and ensure well-rounded growth of the business. In conclusion, employers need to recognize that employee wellbeing isn’t just an added benefit; it’s actually vital for success both from an employee perspective and from the bottom line of the business.
10 Ways You Make Make Employee Wellbeing Your Focus
So now that we’ve spent some time exploring why this matters, we’re now going to detail ten ways that you can actually make this a priority in your business and make a difference among your employees as a result!
1. Encourage Employees to Take Vacation Days
It’s not uncommon for employees to feel guilty about taking time off from work. As a result, they may hoard their vacation days and end up taking very few days off throughout the year. This is unhealthy and can lead to burnout. Encourage your employees to use their vacation days—it’s good for them and good for business.
2. Offer Flexible Working
Many employers are hesitant to offer flexible working arrangements because they fear it will lead to decreased productivity. However, studies have shown that flexible working arrangements actually lead to increased productivity and engagement. When employees have more control over their work schedule, they’re able to better manage their time and energy, which leads to better work quality overall.
3. Encourage Breaks During the Workday
It’s important for employees to take breaks throughout the day in order to recharge and refocus. When employees are allowed to step away from their work for even just a few minutes, it can make a world of difference in terms of their productivity and focus for the rest of the day. Encourage them to get outside and take a walk—they’ll be grateful knowing that you care.
4. Promote Mental Health Awareness and Resources
Mental health is just as important as physical health when it comes to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Promote mental health awareness and resources in your workplace so that your employees know there is no shame in seeking help if they’re struggling. It could be that you look into what makes a good chaplain and consider hiring one, or even running mental health initiatives yourself. It’s all about providing a safe space for everybody in your care.
5. Encourage Social Interaction
It’s important for employees to socialize outside of work in order to maintain healthy relationships with coworkers and reduce stress levels. When employees feel like they have strong relationships with their coworkers, they’re more likely to feel supported at work and less stressed overall. This will only be a benefit for you all in the long-term.
6. Promote Physical Activity During the Workday
Physical activity has been shown to reduce stress levels, increase energy levels, and improve moods—all things that are beneficial for workers who are trying to maintain a healthy work-life balance. There are many ways employers can promote physical activity during the workday, such as offering on-site fitness classes or subsidizing gym memberships.
7. Encourage Employees to Disconnect After Hours
It’s become increasingly common for workers to be accessible at all hours of the day thanks to technology. While this can be beneficial in some situations, it can also lead to burnout if employees are expected or encouraged to be available 24/7. Encourage your employees to disconnect after hours so they can enjoy some much-needed downtime without feeling guilty about it.
8. Implement Policies That Discourage Emailing or Working After Hours
Well—unless asbolutely necessary, of course. In line with tip seven, implementing policies that discourage emailing or working after hours unless absolutely necessary can help promote a healthier work-life balance for employees by giving them set boundaries when it comes to after-hours work. Work is work, home is home—and it’s more important than ever to demonstrate that.
9. Offer Childcare Benefits or Subsidies
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 26% of employed mothers with children under 18 say their job demands make it difficult to care for their children. Offering child care benefits or subsidies can help ease this burden for parents and promote a healthier work-life balance. Doing what you can to keep employed parents happy can make a huge difference.
10. Allow Pets in the Workplace
Allowing pets in the workplace has been shown to reduce stress levels, increase morale, and boost employee retention rates. If you have the space and resources, consider allowing pets in your workplace—it could be just what your employees need to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Encouraging a Better Balance at Work
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for both individual workers and businesses as a whole. By implementing some or all of these tips, you can encourage your employees t o maintain a healthy work-life balance, which will lead to increased productivity, engagement, and retention rates.
