Years ago, workplace wellness was not a crucial element in business strategy. Today, employers are reaping the benefits making the health and well-being of their workforce a priority – increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, savings on healthcare costs, and more.
But what is workplace wellness exactly?
Workplace wellness defined
Workplace wellness programs are a strategic focus by an organization to improve the health and well-being of the workforce. Wellness programs and strategies will vary depending on the company and employee needs.
At its best, your workplace runs like a well-oiled machine. In a machine, gears are used to transmit power from one part to another. The power transmitted by gears can increase speed and force or change direction. The same is true with workplace wellness.
Leaders
You put wellness into motion by providing vision, guidance, and ongoing support. Leaders who actively participate find 83 percent of their employees to be satisfied with the program, and 85 percent feel positive organizational support exists in their workplace. This is compared to leaders who do not actively participate (66 percent and 67 percent, respectively), according to a recent study involving the Health Enhancement Research Organization and Mercer.
Areas of focus – company culture, policy, and empowerment
Employees
If you want to see change in your workplace, start with yourself. By adopting good habits, you will inspire others around you to do the same. Demonstrating kindness, taking wellness breaks, scheduling walking meetings, bringing healthy lunches, and volunteering for a local cause are great steps toward making a positive change at your organization.
Areas of focus – health enrichment, financial literacy, stress management, career planning
Commitment to community
The output of greater health and purpose is a productive and engaged workforce – both at work and their communities. Workplace volunteerism also contributes to business success. In fact, companies that prioritize employee volunteerism “see more than a 19% average annual increase in their operating income,” according to New York Cares.
Areas of focus – productivity, engagement, volunteerism, and social connectedness
When your workplace wellness gears work together, powerful outcomes ensue. Your leaders, your employees, and your commitment to community will be agile and strong.
Are you ready to launch your workplace wellness program? Download your complimentary 5-Step Workplace Wellness Roadmap to get started.