Well-being and the Workplace of the Future
Updated: Feb 8
We’ve all experienced the many ways that the world of work has transformed over the past number of years, the pandemic propelled a seismic shift in the way we live and work. The old world of work has been replaced by something very different; bringing new expectations for organizations and the workplace of the future. Your options: adapt or be left behind.
Despite significant transformations impacting the way people work, one thing that hasn’t changed is the value employees bring to their organizations. In fact, people are arguably a company’s biggest asset, which is why supporting well-being at work isn’t only good for employees, it’s good for business.
INDEAL Cares has been supporting the health and well-being of people in the commercial interiors industry since its inception in 2020. We’ve witnessed the evolution of the changing dynamic and a new focus on well-being as an essential pillar in the workplace of the future.
Here are some key ways to effectively lead the development of a thriving workplace and workforce, regardless of your role.
Embed well-being into your organization’s culture. Prioritizing all elements of health for your own life is one way to encourage your team (and colleagues) to feel empowered to take control of their health. This includes setting boundaries, taking control of physical and mental well-being, and engaging in open discussions about health and well-being goals and challenges. Building a culture that is focused on well-being requires commitment and input from everyone. The best way to ensure a healthy workplace culture is to be honest about what you need and want. Consider participating in the INDEAL Cares’ annual survey to give yourself and your team the opportunity to voice your needs honestly and confidentially. INDEAL Cares can facilitate organizational surveys to support this endeavor. Learn more about signing up to be a 2023 Survey Distribution Partner to understand your team’s well-being needs.
Foster connection. The workspace of the future is evolving, and flexible – but people are still at the core of work, and connection is a critical part of the engagement. In fact, 28% of respondents said that they wanted to see more social interaction and team coordination in our latest survey report. Encourage and/or lead social gatherings for colleagues, and encourage honest conversations between teams, customers, and leaders. Creating and fostering a workplace where people feel trusted, and where leaders can be transparent about their feelings and intentions - both positive and negative - will build stronger connections and loyalty. Establishing an Employee Wellness Committee is a great way to come together socially while also supporting health. Review the Living Well at Work Guide Series, providing a variety of tools to help you get started.
Invest in professional development. Over the course of the last three years, we’ve had the opportunity to re-evaluate priorities and identify new personal and professional goals. Through this new lens, people are certain to consider how their organization’s purpose and values align with their own – and what areas of development are most important for their professional well-being. Our most recent survey found that 34% of people wanted to see their employers investing in their professional development. If you are craving a new challenge or aren’t satisfied or inspired by your work, speak up. Give your organization the opportunity to help you identify new development opportunities and support you in building out a professional development plan that meets your needs.
Take the Next Step in Building the Workplace of the Future.
You have the power to transform the workplace experience to improve well-being, regardless of your position. Reach out to INDEAL Cares for resources, consulting services, and tools for enhancing the way that your workplace supports health. Now is the time to start. Reach out to Stefanie Ince, Executive Director today.