How HR Can Increase Employee Well-Being and Productivity Simultaneously in the Workplace

The current evolving workplace requires accessing a balance among demands, available resources, and the impact it has on productivity and well-being. An HR professional can assist the organization in meaningful conversations about productivity without sacrificing employee well-being.

As reported by the American Institute of Human Resources (AIHR), there are four main aspects to consider when thinking of employees’ well-being;

• Understanding that well-being exists on a continuum from “unwell’ to “flourishing,” and that employees can frequently change their perspective

• Well-being consists of many facets including: physical, mental, intellectual, spiritual, social and financial which contribute to the whole person

• Well-being is influenced by family, community, and society

• It’s necessary to shift to the thinking that there is a responsibility of both the individual and the organization for overall well-being. Organizations are responsible for creating an environment which provides access to services that lead to and enhance well-being.

Most studies view the relationship between well-being and productivity as a direct relationship. Higher levels of well-being lead to higher productivity.

HR can help influence the conversation around well-being and productivity by:

• Helping leaders set and communication goals that employees are expected to deliver on while providing the right level of support, tools, knowledge, and systems

• Evaluating the organization’s vision of both short-term and long-term goals to ensure there is a balance on deliverables and expectations

• Understanding the time commitment and approaches needed to meet and exceed goals

• Working to provide the appropriate services for employees to look after their well-being, like an EAP.

• Influencing the discussion around redefining a “good worker “ from stays late, is there first, works over weekends, to someone who manages a healthy lifestyle between demands and resources and aligns with their organization’s expectations. This may call for re-evaluating what is celebrated and rewarded in organizations

As an HR professional it is important to be aware of the differences between individuals needs of balancing work/life needs and those the organization holds dear. It is important to draw on your relationships with leaders to drive the conversation around well-being and the importance it plays not just on productivity, but the overall culture of the organization.