Keeping your staff healthy doesn’t have to harm your wallet
Whether a business is large or small, wellbeing strategies are an integral part of the workforce culture.
However, with many businesses continuing to feel the pinch, it is no wonder that companies are struggling to implement strategies to make your staff healthy. But it doesn’t have to cost the earth, says Christopher Pedersen, managing director of Convini Food Solutions.
An effective wellbeing strategy doesn’t have to be financially draining or time consuming. In fact, many companies can make big changes with as little as £2 to £3 per employee. Here are some tips to implement the right strategy to make your staff healthy at the right cost for your business:
1. See the issue
Examine the issue of wellbeing. Once companies understand the benefits it can bring then all decision makers can set about finding an effective solution.
2. Understand the employee need
Bear in mind what will work best for the business and its employees. These decisions will be led largely by the age and demographic of the workforce, as well as employee expectation.
3. Engagement
Engaging with staff is key. Use a suggestion box or introduce a group email to encourage employees to get involved. The outcome will also help identify the direction of which route to take.
4. Build two-way communications
Make the business case for wellbeing and then develop a two-way channel of communication between management and staff. This ensures all parties involved are satisfied with the strategy throughout the implementation process.
5. Research
Research all of the options rather than opting for the obvious one! For instance, why not investigate nutritious options for the canteen or the benefits a change in office layout could bring.
6. Thinking outside of the box
More often that not, companies believe wellbeing strategies have to incorporate expensive gym memberships and health insurance packages. However, offering flexible working hours and fresh healthier snacks in the office are great low-cost alternatives.
7. Have confidence to try something new
With so many ‘workplace wellbeing initiatives’ on the market, businesses shouldn’t be afraid to opt for something new.
8. Change the ‘traditional’ mindset
Changing the mindset of employees is key. This can be done simply by supplying staff with information on the dangers of smoking and drinking, as well as highlighting the importance of healthy eating and exercise and rewarding those that do it well.
9. Encourage a desired outcome
When implemented, businesses need to make sure that wellbeing strategies meet the desired outcome. This means responding to the requests of staff and ensuring wellbeing is aligned with the business strategy. A great way to do this is by establishing achievable targets and tracking your results.
10. Incentives
Offering incentives is a great way of involving and engaging staff with the wellbeing culture. Incentives like prize draws and vouchers will both help to encourage staff to get more involved.
There are plenty of ways to implement a wellbeing strategy and the above are a few easy and cost effective tips to get started. By simply taking the time to research options and think outside the box, companies can make huge changes.
