October 2006
When less is more - health & happiness in the workplace
Stress-related illnesses cost British businesses almost £4 billion each year, due to the loss of over 6 million working days, according to new figures released by the Health and Safety Executive. Although Health and Safety has grown rapidly as one of the most pressing concerns for businesses as government regulations and good working practices have become more prevalent, the focus is virtually all directed at dangers to physical, rather than psychological health.
Despite the enormity of the problem, and increased awareness of the need for a good work/life balance, businesses have been slow to react, and many do not know where to begin. However, finding the solutions to these problems need not be a source of anxiety itself, says Simon Warner, Business Manager at Thorpe Molloy Recruitment.
“Stress can be a good thing for workers – it’s necessary for stimulation and motivation, but too much can cause illness. Up to five million people describe themselves as ‘highly’ stressed at work, yet with minimal changes to working practices, it may be possible to greatly reduce this number.”
An anonymous staff survey at MSN suggested that over 60% of employees were considering leaving because of the company's long hours culture. Simon suggests that as an employer, you take a step back and look at the ‘corporate culture’ that exists in your company.
“Staff shouldn’t feel as if they can’t say no to working additional hours, or can’t leave at the end of the normal working day. Make sure you aren’t putting pressure on them, directly or indirectly, to stay late or work through lunch”, says Simon.
Instead of just encouraging people to change, MSN took action by having their management lead by example. They made sure that changes to working patterns were visible and positive by being seen to follow the new rules themselves. As a result, productivity ultimately increased by 60% and customer service levels improved by 80%. 90% of staff now want to stay with the company.
“As an employer, you should be more concerned with output rather than input – it’s the results that count. Having staff working long hours doesn’t necessarily mean they are working effectively”, advises Simon.
Even small changes can help. Actively encourage staff to use their breaks – they will work better if they have been able to have a rest. As Simon explains, “Some companies have even banned workers from eating at their desks, so that they are forced to get up and move away from their workstation. Try to ensure that they also take a few minutes to themselves every couple of hours or so. It may be a good idea to have a ‘quiet room’ where they can go and relax, read a book, or just have a chat. Another great way to ensure staff get their breaks is to encourage work lunches where teams go out together and are able to build stronger and more effective working relations.
There are literally hundreds of ways of making work a more enjoyable and less stressful place, so consider asking your employees for their own thoughts and suggestions. You will no doubt find some fantastic ideas as a result.
Having a happy, contented work force is possibly the best way to boost productivity. As Simon points out, “Staff should not dread going in to work, so it’s up to bosses to make it as painless as possible.”
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