Are well-being and work compatible? A majority of people express concern about the risk of burnout due to work overload, stress, and fatigue. Nowadays, more and more companies are turning towards the well-being of their employees, resulting in real benefits for the business. But what is the reality?
Well-being at work refers to the set of more or less identifiable factors that may influence employees' quality of life in the workplace. These factors include the safety and hygiene of the premises, the protection of the employees’ health, the physical or psychological impact of tasks performed, the ergonomics of the workspace, etc.
Today, the issue of well-being in the workplace is undoubtedly a deciding factor for job seekers, even before remuneration. Employees already have to balance their professional and personal lives with busy schedules! The quality of work life, or QWL, holds a significant place (Works Council, social partners, CSR).
It is known that the work environment has a direct impact on the motivation performance of employees. Companies have much to gain by rethinking the work environment management, and workplace health and safety. Organizational changes can particularly promote well-being at work. Listed measures to prevent physical and psychological risks can contribute to reducing musculoskeletal disorders, workplace accidents, and occupational diseases.
However, it’s essential not to overdo it. Employees may feel that all these adjustments to make office life more enjoyable are balanced with an increase in their objectives and workload, leading to a sense of “obligation” towards their employers. Some may even refer to it as a form of happiness tyranny!
The workspace is a major asset for the well-being of an employee. If employees have a comfortable desk with personal decorations, good visual comfort, and a comfortable chair, it will positively affect their motivation, performance, and productivity. A motivated collaborator means fewer professional risks: absenteeism, psychosocial risks (stress, depression, discomfort or suffering at work, burnout, etc.).
In addition to providing personal space for employees, relaxation rooms and yoga or meditation sessions during lunch breaks are perfect for stress relief at work. This concept is increasingly integrated into the organization and schedules of employees by managers to accelerate the feeling of well-being, good mood, conviviality, and rest. Nowadays, Chief Happiness Officers are highly sought after to help companies embark on the journey of reclaiming a better work environment for their employees!
Regarding employees working from home, teleworking requires adapting the workstation and providing suitable equipment: desk, computer, means of communication and meeting tools, etc. The employee should feel comfortable and create a conducive workspace in an area usually reserved for private use.
Moreover, working away from the vigilance of colleagues, the employee must ensure the safety of their home workstation.
The employer cannot meet the demands of everyone, but the idea here is to collaborate among colleagues, and genuinely survey their needs to create a space where everyone can flourish. Involving employees fosters a sense of belonging to a company and increases their confidence. Employees need to know that they are valuable to the company!
These changes involve peaceful work relationships, constructive and personal exchanges among colleagues (social dialogue), team-building activities to bond and get to know each other, office arrangements, fun workshops, company meals… and similar benefits such as access to an Employee Committee, which allows them to enjoy various offers for ski trips, concerts, etc.
All these improvements in working conditions could then promote employee well-being and increase the company’s ROI.
