The concept of ‘wellbeing at work’ has gained significant attention in recent years, as organisations recognise wellbeing as a vital element to a productive and sustainable workforce, and therefore the economy and society as a whole.
Awareness of wellbeing principles, access to wellbeing practices through education and implementation, are no longer seen as bonus incentives for employers to dish out to potential employees, but as part of measurable business strategies for sustainable growth and productive workplace culture.
In this article, we will explore several psychological studies that confirm why wellbeing at work is a viable strategy for your business.
- Wellbeing & Productivity
The Whitehall II Study is a famous longitudinal study conducted in the United Kingdom that has provided valuable insights into the relationship between work-related factors and employee wellbeing. The study began in 1985 and involved a large sample of British civil servants. (Marmot & Brunner, 2005)
Findings from the Whitehall II Study support the idea that wellbeing at work is crucial for a productive workforce. The study revealed a strong association between job control and psychological well-being. Researchers found that employees who had more control over their work tasks and decision-making experienced higher levels of job satisfaction, lower levels of stress, and better overall wellbeing. Conversely, those with limited control over their work experienced increased levels of stress, poorer mental health, and higher rates of absenteeism.
These findings of this study highlight the significance of empowering employees by providing them with autonomy and control over their work environment. When individuals have a sense of agency and control, they are more likely to feel satisfied and motivated in their roles, leading to improved productivity and overall wellbeing.
- Wellbeing & Key Business Outcomes
The Gallup Q12 Survey is a widely used tool for measuring employee engagement and wellbeing. It consists of 12 questions designed to assess various aspects of employee experience, such as job satisfaction, opportunities for growth, and workplace relationships. The survey has been administered to millions of employees worldwide, providing valuable insights into the relationship between wellbeing at work and organizational outcomes.
Research based on the Gallup Q12 Survey has consistently shown a positive correlation between employee wellbeing and key business outcomes. For example, studies have demonstrated that engaged employees who experience higher levels of wellbeing are more likely to be productive, exhibit higher levels of customer satisfaction, and contribute to overall organizational success.
Furthermore, Gallup’s research has revealed a link between wellbeing at work and reduced turnover. Employees who feel supported, valued, and have their wellbeing needs met are less likely to leave their jobs, leading to increased employee retention and cost savings for organisations.
These findings emphasise the importance of prioritising employee wellbeing as a strategic business approach. By investing in practices that enhance employee engagement and overall wellbeing, organisations can foster a positive work environment, improve productivity, and achieve sustainable growth.
- Wellbeing & Happiness
Shawn Achor, a positive psychology researcher, conducted a study known as “The Happiness Advantage.” In his research, Achor explored the relationship between employee happiness and performance in the workplace. The study involved multiple experiments and surveys conducted with various organisations.
Achor’s findings highlight the significance of employee wellbeing and its impact on productivity and success. He discovered that individuals who experience positive emotions, such as happiness and optimism, perform better in terms of creativity, problem-solving, and task completion. Happiness at work was associated with higher levels of engagement, job satisfaction, and resilience in the face of challenges.
Moreover, Achor’s research revealed that investing in employee wellbeing can create a positive feedback loop. When organisations prioritise wellbeing initiatives, such as providing opportunities for social connections, recognizing employee achievements, and promoting work-life balance, employees become happier, more motivated, and productive. This, in turn, leads to improved business outcomes, including increased revenue, customer satisfaction, and employee retention.
(You can more about Achor’s, ‘The Happiness Advantage’ by watching his TEDx.)
HOW TO FOSTER WELLBEING
The results are in; wellbeing in the workplace, and in your team, matters. It matters for your staff, your culture, and it matters for the outcomes and sustainability of your business.
Consider investing in personal and professional development, as well as team building events and initiatives. Assess your teams wellbeing through regular check-ins, in the form of one-on-one’s or even an anonymous survey. You can hire an independent HR professional to run some workshops with you and your team to address underlying issues, or identify consistent ways in which staff wellbeing can be improved upon over time.
HOW WOTSO MAKES WELLBEING ACCESSIBLE
WOTSO believes in wellbeing as an essential component of the workplace and we make wellbeing accessible through a variety of perks and benefits available to all our members.
Just some of the ways that you can tap into wellbeing as a WOTSO member:
- Events: Our Lunch & Learn events often feature a wellbeing expert or component that provides practical insight and application of wellbeing principles for everyday life (Examples: Yoga, Physiotherapy, Mindfulness, Nutrition and more)
- Celebrations: At WOTSO we LOVE to celebrate! Any occasion or holiday recognised nationally or internationally, is a welcome excuse to come together for some healthy diversion and to celebrate life. Taking breaks, connecting with other members and enjoying free food certainly contributes to wellbeing in a wonderful way.
- Community: Our WOTSO FlexSpaces offer community in a way that is not accessible to traditional self-contained businesses. Collaboration and networking with other professionals is available in the common areas throughout the day, facilitating social connection and diversity outside of your organisations immediate team.
There are so many other ways in which WOTSO is committed to facilitating wellbeing for its members and for your team! Please reach out to us for further information or to discuss how we can support your business in adopting essential wellbeing practices that can ensure sustainable outcomes for your staff and organisation.
References:
Achor, S. (2011) The happiness advantage. Random House. https://d-pdf.com/book/4204/read
Michael Marmot , Eric Brunner, Cohort Profile: The Whitehall II study, International Journal of Epidemiology, Volume 34, Issue 2, April 2005, Pages 251–256, https://doi.org/10.1093/ije/dyh372
