Nibletz Staff
If you want to hire the best talent, providing a healthy and happy workplace should be one of your primary goals as an employer. Of course, research suggests that happiness alone isn’t the be-all and end-all of productivity. But it’s a different story when you combine it with a healthy workforce.
Almost 30% of workers will experience mental health issues in any given year. Happy minds and healthy bodies are great ways to combat this alarming figure.
So, what can you do as an employer to ensure your employees are happy and healthy? Let’s take a closer look at some of the quick wins and progressive ideas that have had proven results.
Encourage healthy habits
Employers can provide better options for their staff when it comes to promoting health and fitness. You could offer extended lunch breaks, for example, so that people can go to the gym for a workout. Fresh fruit on everyone’s desks in the morning will give them a healthy, instant snack. It will also halt the temptation of the usual mix of chocolate and chips you find in the average vending machine. You can even encourage healthier choices just by rearranging the food in your canteen.
Focus on your office layout
Most people think little of the environments we work in – it’s just something we accept. But on a psychological and subconscious level, it can have a profound effect on our productivity. Some people are happiest when working in groups; others are happier in a more private space. There is no perfect office layout, of course, despite repeated attempts by designers to come up with one-size fits all solution. Modern office designers tend to recommend kitting out your workplace with a mix of collaborative and private areas. According to arnoldsofficefurniture.com, great office design helps you maximize productivity in your office space.
Work smarter, not longer
If people are working long hours for your company, they increase their chances of developing stress by a significant amount. Stress is not good – it can lead to high blood pressure, heart issues, and even stroke. Plus, people who work longer hours tend to suffer from ‘presenteeism’ – a state where they aren’t productive at all times. As an employer, you are far better off encouraging plenty of breaks and shorter working hours. It will ensure your workforce are productive for much longer periods of the day. And, according to webmd.com, it will help them achieve a better work-life balance.
An open door policy
Finally, make sure you operate an open door policy so that people feel comfortable about approaching you with their issues. While some people are happy enough to make their feelings clear in meetings, others may not be. With an open door policy, you get to spend a little one-on-one time with people, and will often find they are a lot more open and honest. Communication is vital for all businesses, and the opportunity to speak can increase levels of happiness. It will also highlight any problem areas you need to worry about, so you can take the appropriate action.
Any more suggestions? Feel free to leave them in the comments section below!
