How positive work relationships can improve employee wellness
The importance of workplace social relationships are now being pushed to the fore and employees are encouraged to engage with one another on a more personal level. Gone are the days of working in silence with work relationships never growing past a mere morning “hello”.
Today, working relationships are engrained in many company’s cultures. They can range from something as small as a communal lunch all the way to monthly nights out. As humans we crave social connection in every environment we become accustomed to, so it’s only understandable that this is promoted within the workplace, a place where most people spend 40 or more hours a week!
But, what are the health benefits of having positive work relationships? Here at Glandore, we value the wellbeing of our members at the highest level. We believe that companies who embrace workplace wellbeing will see the incredible benefits which come with it. Here are just a few ways in which your employees can benefit from improved workplace relationships.
1. Increased happiness and morale
Relationships can help provide comfort and support to those who need it. Therefore, those who have good relationships with others in their workplace tend to be happier than those who don’t.
Studies have shown that relationships can have a tremendous effect on our health and wellbeing, with social connections making us feel not only happier but also physically healthier. Therefore, it’s important that this is practised in all aspects of our life.
Boosting opportunities for social interaction can lead to increased morale in the workplace. This, in turn, can help increase productivity and create a more accepting atmosphere for all members of the team.
2. Better engagement
Employees who maintain healthy workplace relationships tend to be more in tune with what’s going on and are typically more engaged with their work than others.
This is down to good workplace culture. Healthy workplace relationships provide the backbone for a culture which promotes positive thinking and idea sharing, two things which can only improve your business. Cohesion between coworkers leads to leaps in creativity in the office and overall better collaboration on projects.
Why not invest in a training day for your employees to partake in? Discover what makes your workplace ‘tick’ and by the end of it, you’ll have a great list of tips to improve your professional life.
3. Increased retention rates
If staff are happy at work, why would they want to leave? Right?
Although it’s not as simple as this, there is some truth behind it. A work environment that promotes positive social connections tends to experience better recruitment outcomes than those who do not.
Employees who are content in their regular place of work and have formed good relationships and bonds with their coworkers will have less reason to look elsewhere for employment.
4. And ultimately, less stress
Unfortunately, stress is a common theme among all employees in all positions within companies.
Facing these alone can only add to the pressure. Having friends in work is one thing, but having friends who can help with your workload is another. Positive workplace relationships allow you to rely on those who can help, to help.
Employees dealing with high levels of stress can lead to absenteeism, low energy and irritability. By encouraging employees to foster social connections, employers can avoid these issues. With less stress, employees can perform at their very best and deliver to the highest standard.