Blog

Wellbeing in the workplace is regularly making the news headlines. More and more smart employers recruiting for jobs in Basingstoke are asking us how they can create a healthier office space that will attract top talent to their business – and help retain valued employees.

More than just a pay check

In our previous blog ‘Want to know the secret to retaining staff?‘, we looked at some of the factors that have an impact on the happiness, loyalty and commitment of staff. It may come as a surprise to some that money was far down the list; trumped by non-financial motivators such as camaraderie, flexibility, autonomy – and office environment.

The average person spends 40 or more hours at work, so the surroundings and culture of their workspace can have a massive impact on their mood and ability to perform optimally in their role.

Working environment: new research

A recent survey by recruitment website Totaljobs has highlighted some interesting perspectives on how employers view the relationship between mental health and work environment. The survey of 1,005 employees and 260 employers in the UK revealed that 25% of employer respondents feel that their ability to retain staff is aided by the quality of their office space.

40% of employer respondents believe that providing perks such as healthy snacks, alternative seating and even complementary therapies can reduce employee stress. Not only that, 27% believe that these perks enhance productivity – which can have a knock-on effect on business growth.

Tips for creating a healthier office – and happier staff

To improve your office environment in a way that complements a ‘wellbeing-first’ company ethos, why not try introducing some quiet areas with comfortable seating where your staff can go to unwind and refocus?

For those that need an energy boost, contact local fitness instructors to see if they could teach a lunchtime bootcamp class or lead a running club? Yoga and Pilates classes are also a superb antidote to the desk-based aches and pains that can sometimes lead to absence due to back and neck pain or migraines.

Allow fun to create bonds

The Totaljobs study showed that more than one in 10 employers enable employees to access informal breakout areas. Not only do these allow employees to have fun and decompress during breaks, they encourage the important friendship bonds that can improve team dynamics and help staff retention.

Lynne Cahillane, Head of Marketing at Totaljobs comments:

“With mental health concerns within the UK workforce at an all-time high, paired with a national productivity crisis, our research reveals the importance of investing in office space as a method of reducing stress and boosting outputs.

“By providing perks, from something as practical as showers and bike storage, to the offer of unlimited snacks or a games room, employers can help to alleviate stress within the workplace and consequently boost morale and productivity.”

Your business is only as healthy as your staff. So, as we approach World Mental Health Day on 10 October, there has never been a better time to review wellbeing in your workplace and put some positive changes into action.

Are you a business owner looking to fill jobs in Basingstoke? Wote Street People is a recruitment agency in Basingstoke, here to help you. Talk to us today to find out more on 01256 799127.