What is wellbeing? And what does it mean for employers? It’s usually described as aspects of the way people feel about their lives, including their jobs, and their relationships with the people around them. It’s influenced by a whole range of things, but research shows that employers can have a significant impact on an individual's sense of wellbeing. And their perception of themselves.

A recent study of over 4,000 pieces of research into workplace wellbeing reveals that it isn’t necessarily tied to a job title. Instead, it’s how well they feel their employer looks after them, how secure their job is, if they have clear responsibilities and on-the-job training. The social aspects of work are also important. That’s ways to look at an employee more broadly. It’s holistically considering an employee’s needs, in health and in happiness.

Wellbeing in the workplace

Employers can engage with wellbeing activities in a range of ways. Here are just a few top tips for activities that can make your workplace a better environment:

• Get up and go! Standing desks help keep your workforce active and on their feet. And being more active at work is shown to be linked to better mood and productivity.
• Are you thinking about mental health? People don’t like to talk about concerns around depression and anxiety. Try hosting a workshop to talk about these issues. People may not immediately speak up but you’re creating a supportive environment where they can if they need to.
• Do you advertise opportunities for extra training well? Are their classes or courses you can offer which improve the skills of your workforce? Great training is a win-win situation.
• Be grateful for the little things. Some workplaces have found success in a shared document where team members record one thing for which they are grateful for day. After several weeks review that document. Has people’s way of thinking changed?
• What employees eat directly affects their productivity, so are you offering your teams good options? If you can, free fruit, cheeses or healthy teas and cereals are great employee benefits. If that’s not in your budget then share details with staff of healthy options in the surrounding area. Why not invite one of those outlets to do a lunchtime delivery to your office? Small changes make a big difference.

We’re proud to work with a range of large and small employers that think about the little things. Employers that are proud to look after their staff. Search our database of available vacancies here.