Supporting employees goes beyond paychecks—it’s about creating a culture of care, says Holly Coe, senior reward consultant at Innecto Reward Consulting, as she outlines how employers can help prevent burnout in the long-run.
Every organisation aspires to support its employees, while promoting a workplace culture that nurtures their sense of belonging. A competitive salary remains crucial, but enduring workplace happiness stems from employees feeling genuinely valued and respected. It is this sense of appreciation that inspires people to excel and stay committed.
Recent research underpins the strong connection between employee happiness and organisational success. In 2019, Oxford University revealed that happy employees are 13 percent more productive. Additionally, findings from MIT have highlighted how happiness significantly impacts retention, influencing employees’ decisions to join, remain at, or leave, a company.
The challenge for businesses lies in identifying the early warning signs of diminishing morale and taking proactive steps to prevent burnout.
Proactive not reactive
A timeless principle applies here: prevention is better than cure. Reactive measures can address immediate issues, but a forward-thinking approach reassures employees that support is always within reach. A range of products and services exists to provide this peace of mind to both employees and employers alike.
Standalone or complementary to private medical insurance (PMI), cash plans alleviate everyday health expenses, such as dental treatments, eye tests, and physiotherapy— all common drivers of absenteeism. These plans can also expedite access to diagnostic services and reduce NHS wait times, offering practical support and reducing stress for employees.
Safety net
Insurance products provide a financial safety net, covering absences due to hospital visits or surgical procedures, and offering support for families in cases of critical illness or death in service.
Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) offer confidential, professional support for employees facing challenges, such as personal or work-related issues. Whether through counselling sessions or problem-solving consultations, these programmes enhance resilience.
Tools like 24/7 smartphone apps make EAP services more accessible, ensuring help is available when needed. Employee benefits’ platforms such as HAPI from Personal Group, offer convenience and visibility, which is proving increasingly popular among organisations.
Empathy at every level
Providing access to wellbeing tools is only part of the equation. Effective communication is critical to ensure employees engage with these benefits. Businesses committed to combating burnout must prioritise listening and demonstrate empathy at every level.
Leadership teams play a pivotal role in creating an authentic culture of care. Beyond annual or quarterly reviews, companies should encourage regular, informal touchpoints. Communication strategies might include visual reminders, periodic emails, one-on-one check-ins, and platforms for employee feedback. Such efforts demonstrate genuine care and promote stronger connections between teams and their leaders.
Enhance inclusion
Recognition programmes remain one of the most effective ways to enhance employee happiness and performance. A well-executed scheme reinforces positive behaviours, cultivates a supportive culture, and strengthens the manager-employee bond. Whether it’s a personalised reward or a simple thank-you note, timely recognition has a lasting impact.
For younger generations, who value immediacy, digital solutions enable 24/7 access to recognition platforms. These tools also enhance inclusivity, ensuring that every employee can participate—regardless of location.
Prioritise balance
Achieving a sustainable work-life balance is now more essential than ever. Employers may not always have the flexibility to offer fully customisable schedules, but accommodating employees’ preferences for remote working, compressed hours, or part-time roles can significantly improve morale and productivity.
Promoting healthier lifestyle choices also plays a vital role. Whether through incentives for walking or cycling to work, access to nutritious meal options, or subsidised gym memberships, companies have myriad opportunities to support employee wellbeing. Services that offer holistic support also have a key role to play, offering anything from workout classes and mental health resources to sleep tools and stress management techniques.
Step up
Organisations committed to proactive and empathetic employee support will always stand out as employers of choice. By creating a culture of care, investing in preventative tools, and maintaining open communication, companies can ensure happier, healthier, and more engaged teams—a true win-win for everyone.
