COVID-19* brought about huge changes in both where and how we work. As restrictions lift, we have a unique opportunity to build a work world that puts employee wellbeing at the forefront.
While arguments can be made both for and against remote and onsite work environments, moving forward many workplaces are opting for a mix of the two — a hybrid model. This model allows companies to keep their employees as safe as possible without losing valuable connections that are best achieved face-to-face.
“Trying different ways of doing things is what brings invention.” — Terry Mark
Any level of remote work is not without its challenges, especially when trying to maintain a culture where employees feel connected. If you are struggling with how to best support employee wellbeing and offer wellness opportunities when not everyone is onsite, consider the following ideas:
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Continue with virtual offerings. The pandemic forced this mode of meeting, learning, and interacting. But it’s clear that at least some virtual offerings need to stay to best meet the needs of employees. Check out this list of 24 virtual mini wellness challenges, games, and ideas specifically designed to improve the relationship between an organization and its remote workers.
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Prioritize mental wellbeing. Mental health issues are at an all-time high. The 2021 Mind the Workplace Report findings indicate that the pandemic intensified preexisting workplace stress and burnout. Now is a great time to analyze your current mental health policies to see what changes or additions might be needed. Be sure you are taking advantage of all your vendors that can help support your employees. And whether you can make changes to your benefits or not, be sure to remind employees of what is available to them and share this information repeatedly.
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Foster connection and belonging. Retaining a deeper sense of belonging, no matter where we are, starts with feeling at home within ourselves. Share this “Practice to Stop, Be, and Connect” (scroll down for the three-step practice) to help your employees make a subtle shift to feel less isolated and alone anytime its needed.
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Learn more. Consider reading Out of Office: The Big Problem and Bigger Promise of Working from Home. Based on interviews with employees and managers around the world, this book highlights the key values that should be driving this conversation: trust, fairness, flexibility, inclusive workplaces, equity, and work-life balance. Charles Duhigg, best-selling author of The Power of Habit says, “It's a book that helps us imagine a future where our lives—at the office and home—are happier, more productive, and genuinely meaningful.”
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Share the Staying well in a hybrid work culture handout to help your employees learn five ways to combat feelings that may come with lack of personal connection.
* For the most up-to-date COVID-19 information, visit Hennepin County, Minnesota Department of Health, or Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC).
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