INVESTIGATING THE FOUR PILLARS OF EMPLOYEE WELLBEING
In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environments, employee wellbeing has emerged as a critical focus for companies. “A healthy and happy workforce not only leads to increased productivity but also fosters a positive work culture and reduces staff turnover,” commented Campbell & Fletcher Recruitment Director. Alison Campbell, “to ensure employee wellbeing, companies need to address various aspects of their lives beyond just work-related factors and create environments that enables employees to make informed healthy choices”, she added.
It has widely been identified that there are four main pillars of employee wellbeing which are inextricably interlinked with each other; Physical, Mental, Financial and Social Health wellbeing:
1. Physical Wellbeing: Physical wellbeing refers to the state of an employee’s physical health and vitality. It includes aspects such as exercise, nutrition, sleep, and overall fitness. Company’s should support physical wellbeing by promoting a healthy lifestyle through initiatives like wellness programs, gym memberships, or fitness challenges. Encouraging regular exercise breaks, providing healthy food options in the workplace, and promoting a work-life balance that allows for sufficient rest are all important steps in fostering physical wellbeing. Additionally, cultivating a work environment that supports work-life balance and flexible schedules can contribute to better physical health.
2. Emotional Wellbeing: Emotional wellbeing focuses on an employee’s ability to cope with stress, maintain positive mental health, and experience a sense of overall emotional balance. Company’s should support emotional wellbeing by creating a positive work culture that values open communication, empathy, and emotional support. Encouraging employees to take breaks, providing resources for stress management, and offering access to mental health support services can contribute to their emotional wellbeing. Recognising and celebrating achievements, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment, and promoting work-life integration are additional strategies to support emotional wellbeing.
3. Social Wellbeing: Social wellbeing refers to the quality and strength of an employee’s relationships and connections with others. People are social, and fostering a sense of community and belonging within the workplace is crucial for employee wellbeing. Company’s should support social wellbeing by promoting teamwork and collaboration, organising team-building activities, and creating opportunities for employees to connect and build relationships with one another. Encouraging a supportive and inclusive work environment, where employees feel valued and respected, can also enhance social bonds and contribute to overall job satisfaction.
4. Mental Wellbeing: Mental wellbeing encompasses an employee’s cognitive and psychological health. It involves maintaining mental clarity, focus, and resilience in the face of challenges. Company’s should support mental wellbeing by providing opportunities for personal and professional growth, such as training programs or skill development workshops. Promoting work environments that encourage innovation, creativity, and autonomy can also contribute to employees’ mental wellbeing. Additionally, Company’s can offer resources and support systems for managing stress, promoting work-life balance, and addressing work-related pressures.
“Company’s that have a focus on employee wellbeing is more likely to cultivate a positive work culture. When employees feel supported, respected, and valued, they are more likely to collaborate, communicate effectively, and support one another. A positive work culture fosters creativity, innovation, and teamwork, leading to better outcomes, increased morale, and an overall enjoyable work environment,” added Alison.
By prioritising these four pillars of employee wellbeing – physical, emotional, social, and mental; company’s can create a well-rounded approach to supporting their employees’ overall health and happiness. A comprehensive wellbeing strategy that encompasses physical, emotional, social, intellectual, financial, and environmental aspects not only benefits individual employees but also contributes to a company’s success. When employees feel valued, supported, and healthy, they are more likely to be engaged, productive, and committed to their work, ultimately leading to a positive and thriving work environment. Prioritising employee wellbeing is a win-win situation for both employees and employers alike.
