Setting the stage at work
As employers it’s important to remember what you model and provide for your team will set the stage for how they handle stress while at work. Whether it’s a personal matter they can’t shake or a work conflict that must be addressed.
Providing your team a safe space to communicate openly is a great first step in creating a supportive workplace environment.
Here are two ways to help your team balance their personal life with their need to work.
- Setting boundaries
Establish clear work expectations with your team. When they clock out are they still expected to check work emails until a certain time? Help your team adjust notifications settings for work hours so when they are at home their cell phone and computers won’t get push notifications outside of normal working hours.
- Ensure job security
Many employees stress regularly over job security. Be sure you have a system in place that allows for regular feedback and growth opportunities. Speak to your team members about their workplace goals and where they might need help improving.
You can suggest local industry events or professional organizations that allow your team to become the best worker for your company and the best version of themselves.
94% of workers report feeling stress at work
According to the article, ‘67 Workplace Stress Statistics in 2023’
Reducing stress in the day-today
When your employees are at work and in the moment of stress there are three techniques that can help them come back to baseline and have a more productive day.
1. Deep breathing and relaxation breaks.
Adding these breaks throughout the day can help balance the workload and give the brain a break. Step away from the desk or office and just stand outside for 5 minutes. Don’t check emails or scroll social media, just be and just breathe.
2. Limit overwork
With long hours and tight deadlines this can be a tough balance but it’s possible. Allow your team to keep work at work and not bring work home. If they need extra help to complete tasks, provide the support needed. Learn to say no and teach your team not to overcommit themselves.
3. Open communication.
Frequently check in on your team and ask where their stress level is on a scale of 1-10 and ask how you can support them. Nowadays many businesses offer their team assistance programs that provide counseling and other mental health resources. There is no shame in seeking third-party support.
Remember workplace stress can impact employee health significantly and lead to more missed days of work if not managed properly. Additionally, unmanaged stress can lead to chronic illness and higher medical bills for diagnosis and treatment.
Help your team master the balancing act and improve your work culture by keeping open communication and clear work-life expectations.