Top 10 Tips For a Balance-Friendly Workplace

No one could’ve predicted how Covid would change the workplace and the expectations of the workforce.

Gallup reports of 125 million full-time jobs in the U.S. that 50% (60 million) can work from home. 30% say they prefer full time work from home. 60% report want a blend or hybrid role. and only 10% say they want to work all 5 days onsite.

In 2021, we expected to return to normal, but new Covid variants, a war for talent, and high inflation called for change. It’s clear, that what we all thought was temporary in 2020 is here to hang out in 2022 and anyone not willing to adapt will be left behind.

Self-care and wellbeing, eliminating commute, & flexibility for family are top of mind for employees and their job-search compass is set to companies who provide a balance-friendly workplace that meets their expectations. Here are my top 10 tips for a balance-friendly workplace in 2022:

Teleworking 
Does your workplace allow work from home? There are a couple of models that are popular right now. Hybrid, a mix of in-office days and work-from-home days. or 100% Work-From-Home. Essential workplaces may require many workers onsite however many manager positions can lead with a virtual presence. Workplaces must increase their Virtual Intelligence to stay competitive.

Flextime
Can you alter your work schedule to attend a child’s activity, take care of a personal business matter, or go to a doctor’s appointment? Or maybe you like sleeping in an extra hour and prefer working a little later. Employers can offer employees the opportunity to set their own schedules with greater flexibility with more responsibility on them. Employees who have truly flexible schedules are more likely to be engaged, productive, satisfied with their jobs, and feel appreciated.

Childcare
Does your workplace offer child care services or child care spending or savings accounts or tax benefits? Childcare is not only a great cost for an employee but for many, especially women, the responsibility of taking care of their child becomes a burden to their advancement at work. Providing benefits around childcare for both men and women helps ensure equal opportunity for advancement, creates greater workplace wellbeing, and reduces turnover related to the lack of these benefits.

Eldercare
Is your workplace flexible when it comes to eldercare responsibilities? Flextime, savings accounts, and telecommuting are all benefits that can assist employees in taking care of their elderly family members.

Provided Healthy Snacks/Convenience Services
If you’re still going to the office every day, then you spend the majority of your day there. Does your workplace provide healthy snacks, access to food, or convenience services? One trend that’s become popular is providing an unlimited supply of snacks and drinks free of charge. Other options are setting up vending services or automated convenience stores in break rooms. Some companies even offer cafeteria, pharmacy, dry cleaning, tailoring, and hair services. It reduces the time away from the office having to drive somewhere and increases productivity and job satisfaction.

Alternative Leave Options (Paternity/Pawternity Leave)
Most companies offer Maternity leave, but what about Paternity Leave for the new father? Are these options available if parents adopt? And have you heard of Pawternity Leave for new pet parents? Yes, it’s a thing. With the passing of the Family and Medical Leave Act, companies can allow workers time off to care for children, elders, family emergencies, etc. Pet leave would fall outside of that, but it’s an optional company perk that can win some exceptional talent love, especially if they love their pets.

Education, Coaching, & Training
Does your company invest in and promote outside learning and training opportunities? Are they more than just formal education degrees? Today there are so many ways to learn and develop. From formal degrees to professional coaching to online training. Encouraging your employees to craft their talent and gain additional skills they may be interested in, especially if they are needed within your company, are not only beneficial for their confidence and growth, but for the company.

EAP & Telehealth 
Does your company provide an (Employee Assistance Program)? Do your managers help remind workers to take advantage of it? These are free benefits to employees that are specifically there to help with mental health and total wellbeing. Check with your HR department and discover the resources available to you. Many workers prefer telehealth services for wellness check ups and maintenance as well.

Wellness Center or Virtual Workout Programs
Many companies offer access to discounted gym memberships or may even have a gym on-site. Are you taking advantage of these? This is a great way to contribute to your physical well-being.

Fun-loving Culture
Does your business promote playfulness, humor, team time, and laughter? Game days, movie nights, trivia lunches, pizza & ping pong, CAPPY HOURS (an hour of all caps in a general chat group), etc. Time away from the desk (or work) with the people we work with is essential to building a culture that enjoys spending time together while working.

Are you looking for someone to help you discover ways to improve workplace culture and wellbeing? Schedule time ask me anything and until then, check out my Workplace Training brochure.