8 ways To Reduce Stress In The Workplace
Stress in the workplace
Stress is a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances. In today’s society, it’s an ever growing prevalent. When employees are stressed productivity can go into decline and can be a start of a vicious cycle. It is estimated work-related stress in the UK costs businesses millions of pounds a year. In an ideal world, it would be advised to deal with the problem head for the sake of the employees’ health, productivity and profit margins.
Here is a list of 8 ways to reduce stress in the workplace
- Lead by example
As a leader, it’s vital you lead by example it’s critical you keep a lid on your own emotions, negativity, anger or stress can rub off on your employees. Make sure you practice what you preach and ensure you give yourself enough time to de-stress at the end of the day. Regular breaks and time out can put you in the correct frame of mind. It will enlighten employees and show them it’s ok to take some time out.
- Keep employees in the loop
An unpredictable working environment will constantly put employees on edge. Always ensure employees knows what is expected of them, what their responsibilities are and who they can speak to if things aren’t going to plan. Give you employees the peace of mind they deserve.
- Provide chill out time and social areas
Stress can be very overwhelming and maybe too much to bear. Providing a stress-free environment can be beneficial to any employee under strain. Sitting at your desk doesn’t really help, providing a communal area where a social atmosphere is present can really do wonders. The support of others can relieve stress and provide an opportunity for staff members to get to know one and other.
- Invest in up-to-date equipment
A good tradesman never blames his tools. This is not the case if the equipment used is not up to scratch. It is important to make sure that it is up to the standard required. Struggling with deadlines and having to deal with a slow computer, or coming into work every morning with a bad back from sitting on a cheap chair all day can easily cause excess and unnecessary stress.
- Ensure employees have the right training
To prevent confusion and stress its advice to make sure the correct training is provided. They might have the skills and knowledge from previous roles but if they don’t know how the business runs and how their work should be conducted it can lead to high levels of confusion and stress. This can lead to a decline in productivity.
- Listen to your employees
If your employees are highly stressed it’s a good idea to ask them what’s bothering them. Having a direct line to employees can give them the push to come forward to discuss matters. This can prevent problems getting worse and stress levels hitting a high if the problems are resolved early on.
- Introduce Flexi working hours
A major stress inducer, particularly for women, is stringent working hours. Introducing a flexible working scheme is proven to boost morale and thus profitability. By conducting such a scheme can show employees you trust them and their ability to manage their own time. This can also take away added stress such as child care. The key to Flexi working hours is communication, outlining clear expectations and parameters can prevent problems.
- Workplace Wellness Schemes
Introducing a workplace wellness scheme can be very beneficial for any business. Exercise and a healthy lifestyle are vital to combat work-related stress. Introducing office gym classes or healthy eating practices can boost brain stimulation resolving in higher productivity rates.
