Since the onset of the pandemic, the employee-employer relationship has changed drastically. Both parties were forced to make quick and often rushed decisions on how to keep their business running through virtual means while also keeping employees engaged and focused. This task proved to be a difficult challenge as social isolation and the difficult adjustment to the online workplace greatly decreased productivity for many companies, and often took a toll on the mental health of employees and employers alike. Perhaps the most crucial insight that has come out of this year has been the importance of employee health. The mental health of a company's workforce directly impacts the productivity of a company and ultimately its bottom line making it an aspect that cannot be overlooked.
How does stress impact the workplace?
Unhealthy stressors which are sometimes called "hindrance stressors" are shown to lower the job performance of employees and can greatly reduce the level of commitment an employee feels towards their organization. These types of stressors often lead to burnout among the workforce and don't have to come from within the company itself. Hindrance stressors often come from outside of work such as financial uncertainty, negative life events, and work-family conflict, all of which have been much more prevalent this year.
How does employee health and wellbeing benefit both the employee and employer?
Employee wellbeing means that employees are more dedicated and engaged in their work which significantly improves job performance and the improvement in job performance leads to a much greater sense of organizational commitment. Not only does this fulfill the duty of companies to treat their employees ethically, but it also benefits the company itself by resulting in more productive, dedicated, and happy employees.
How have companies changed to better accommodate the health of their employees?
This is why organizational culture in many companies has shifted away from mindsets like "the customer is always right". Balancing the needs of employees with the needs of customers allows employees to work at their best and serve customers better
Takeaways
Mental health has become a crucial part of the workplace, now more than ever the struggles of mental health are a serious issue and its importance cannot be overlooked without consequences. Looking out for the mental health of employees and employers benefits all parties involved and creates a healthy and productive workplace.