Improving Employee Wellbeing Whilst Remote Working

As 2020 draws to an end, many of us have settled into the routine of remote working. From skipping the gruelling daily commute to saving costs on travelling; working from home has had its perks. However, as many of us are aware, remote working also has its challenges. It has been incredible isolating, particularly for those who live alone. Similarly, the loss of routine has caused work-related stress and burnout. Spending so much time indoors, without contact from our extended family, friends or colleagues has also significantly impacted the mental health of many. The Importance of Improving Employee Wellbeing Whilst Remote Working As an employer or business owner, it is crucial that you are prioritising employee wellbeing whilst remote working. As we inch closer to a looming mental health crisis, it is apparent that taking care of your team is more important now than ever before. If you are not prioritising employee wellbeing, you are running the risk of losing employees. Your employees may experience stress, anxiety and burnout, which will lead to them having to take time off work. Or, if your team members feel as if their employer doesn’t care about their wellbeing, they may look elsewhere for a job. You are also running the risk of productivity and engagement levels dropping, which will cause several problems within your business. Ultimately, positive employee wellbeing is crucial for the success of your business and can affect your bottom line. So, here are our tips for improving employee wellbeing whilst remote working.

Set Clear Boundaries

When working from home, it can be easy to fall out of routines. The line between work time and personal time can quickly become blurred and your employees may find themselves working longer hours. This lack of work-life balance can lead to high stress levels. It will impact the quality of work and the quality of your employees’ home life. To prevent this, you should be encouraging your team to set clear boundaries for themselves. Highlight the importance of having boundaries and set a positive example. Encourage your team to “switch off” from the technologies tying them to their work and ensure they are taking sufficient breaks. Plus, check in on everyone regularly. If you notice someone working later than usual, have a chat with them about setting personal boundaries and giving themselves time to rest.

Have Regular One to Ones

One of the biggest challenges when working remotely is communicating effectively with your team. When in the office, it is simple to ask someone how they are doing. Or have a quick chat about their workload. It’s also easy for a team member to reach out if they have a problem. However, when remote working, these small yet important things become a little harder to fit into your daily routine. To improve the wellbeing of your team whilst working remotely, schedule in regular one to ones. Perhaps once per month, have a private one to one with each employee. Aside from discussing work-related issues or workloads, make the time to ask how your employee is doing. Is working from home effecting their wellbeing? Are they taking regular breaks and getting daily exercise? Are they overwhelmed or isolated? Are they coping with family life on top of their job? If an employee is struggling, you will then be able to provide the support they need to improve their wellbeing. This might be a reduced workload, training, or mental health support.

Provide Wellbeing Tools

In recent years, more and more companies have turned to wellbeing tools. Wellbeing tools usually include an employee wellbeing app, an online portal and wellbeing training (if required). These valuable tools provide your team with the resources and knowledge they need to prioritise and improve their mental and physical wellbeing. In addition, they allow you, the employer, to track the wellbeing of your team and provide support where needed. For example, with an employee wellbeing app, your team will be able to track their sleep, physical activity and mental health. It provides resources, tools and tips to help your employees improve their wellbeing. The online portal then displays the data generated from the app so that you (the employer) have a better understanding of how your employees are doing with their wellbeing.

Offer Flexibility Where Possible

Flexible working hours can be incredibly helpful for employees with children. It gives them the versatility to work around other commitments. They will be able to work at a time that is most convenient for them, reducing distractions and increasing productivity. Flexible working will take away an element of stress and help your team with their work-life balance. Plus, during the winter months, it gives your employees more time to get outdoors for their daily exercise.

Prioritise Mental Wellbeing

Your business, regardless of industry or size, should have a clear mental health policy. If working from home is taking its toll on your team, take the time to remind them that help is available. Send your team members information on the company mental health policy and ensure mental health is an open topic within your workplace. Encourage your team to reach out if they are struggling and ensure they are aware that support will be given if they need it.

Author Bio Jake Adams - Co-Founder and COO of Wellspace Wellspace is a fully comprehensive wellbeing provider and is on a mission to improve mental and physical health and wellbeing by using cutting edge intelligent technologies, real-time reporting, data based clinical workshops and seminars and a clear evidence of success and ROI.”