Empathy in business and leadership can be a powerful driver of business growth leading to happier employees, customers, and increased productivity. If you want to create an environment where employees feel valued and love where they work, don’t mistake this interpersonal skill as an unimportant one.
As part of a Health Shield health cash plan, we offer an Employee Assistance Programme so that employees who may be experiencing difficulties that impact their mental wellbeing have support they can easily access. So, we asked our EAP partners, Health Assured, about the importance of creating an empathetic workplace and some of the ways a workplace can foster an empathetic workplace. Here’s what they said:
Invest in teamwork ethics
Every business out there can only thrive with the help and support of its workforce. A team which promotes cohesion and solidarity is proven to breed business success.
That’s why it’s so important to invest in teamwork ethics.
Whether you’re tackling a new project or reshaping an ongoing one, make sure every employee respects the idea of teamwork throughout. Highlight the fact that every individual holds a significant role within the company.
Through collaboration and cohesion, you’ll soon see your business grow extensively.
Show gratitude towards others
Showing gratitude in the workplace is so important. Every worker should know where they stand within the company–and be known for their value and worth.
Remember, without the workforce, there is no work. So, show your employees you are grateful for their efforts, loyalty, and dedication. But don’t just tell them–make sure you award those who truly go the extra mile. Little gestures like these can go a long way.
Learn to listen well
When it comes to building business skills, one of the best ones to work on is listening. Being able to be a good listener is a tough thing to accomplish. As most of us love to hear our own voice or share our ‘two-cents’ worth of advice.
But in the workplace, listening to your people is one way to truly establish and answer queries. Place suggestion boxes for staff and aim to action as many as you reasonably can. And hold meetings where employees can comfortably share their concerns without fears of repercussions.
Remember, there’s a reason why we have one mouth, but two ears!
Provide mental health first aid
When it comes to employees struggling with their mental wellbeing, things can get a little complicated. ‘What counts as mental health?’ ‘What happens when health conditions class as disabilities?’
But don’t panic, there are so many mental health tools and practices you can bring into your business.
One of the best tools to introduce is an Employee Assistance Programme (EAPs). They help identify any concerns employees might face, in both personal and professional capacities.
Through these apps, people with mental health problems (like work-related stress, anxiety, and depression) gain access to the right support.
You can also provide mental health first aid services, so employees have help at all times. These services can range from training courses to medical referrals. Together, you can help employees manage their conditions, triggers, and outcomes.
