The pandemic has forced many companies to adopt a hybrid working pattern, where employees split their time between remote work and office work. While hybrid working can offer increased flexibility and productivity, it also comes with new challenges for employees’ mental health. It’s crucial to prioritise mental well-being during this time, and as managers, you have a crucial role in supporting your team’s mental health.
Acknowledge that mental health matters: As a manager, you need to create an environment where people feel safe talking about their mental health struggles. Encourage conversations around mental health and make sure employees know that their wellbeing is taken seriously. Start from the top, lead by example by acknowledging your own struggles with mental health.
Encourage breaks: Remote work can be isolating and many workers are finding themselves overworking, pushing themselves to burnout. As a leader, you should encourage your employees to take breaks during the day, whether it’s a coffee break or a mental health day. Make sure they understand that it’s okay to prioritise their wellbeing over work.
Provide resources: There are many resources available for employees to manage their mental health, such as counselling and mindfulness apps. As an employer, invest in your employees’ well-being by providing them with these resources. This can help to show that you value their mental health and can offer support when they need it.
Prioritise communication: Maintaining constant communication with employees is essential, especially when working remotely. A lack of communication can lead to increased stress and anxiety, making it hard for employees to complete their work effectively. Encourage regular check-ins and use software like Zoom or Teams to make virtual meetings feel more personal.
Create opportunities for team building: Working remotely can make it challenging for employees to bond with each other. From virtual water coolers, to online team-building activities, there are many ways to create a feeling of community and foster collaboration. It’s important to make sure your employees feel connected and valued in their work.
Hybrid working has brought about new changes to our work culture, and it’s vital to prioritise employee’s mental wellbeing. As a manager, you have a responsibility to provide support and resources that enable employees to manage their mental health.
Encouraging open communication, regular check-ins, providing resources, and creating opportunities for team-building can help make remote working a more positive experience for all. Remember, taking care of your employee’s mental health can improve not only their wellbeing, but also their overall performance and satisfaction in their job.