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Good leadership requires presence

Good leadership requires presence – do you have buffer time in your calendar?

As a leader, you play a central role in your employees’ wellbeing. You may already have regular check-ins scheduled, but it can be just as important to make room for the unplanned conversation – the one that often ends op making the biggest difference. If your calendar is packed with back-to-back meetings, it sends a clear signal that you’re unavailable. And who wants to be the “difficult” employee who asks their leader to reshuffle the day? 

By keeping small blocks of open time in your calendar, you’re doing yourself and your employees a favour by prioritising to be available. When someone has something pressing on their mind, it can’t always wait until tomorrow. Time is a cornerstone in supporting mental wellbeing, and the time you share is likely to come back to you in the form of lower sickness absence and higher employee satisfaction. Research shows that when employees feel their mental wellbeing is genuinely prioritised, it has a positive impact – and it even spills over to the bottom line. 

Practical tips – and a lifeline

  1. Block dedicated buffer time

    Be intentional with your calendar so your employees know that making time for them is a priority. This becomes even more important when you manage several people.

  2. Listen and be fully present

    Ask open questions, listen attentively and remember to allow room for pauses.

  3. Get support for the right conversation

    You’re always welcome to reach out to us if you need advice on wellbeing or support in handling a difficult conversation.

  • Do you need guidance on wellbeing and health?

    If your company could benefit from professional advice or support regarding employee wellbeing, please reach out to our

    Corporate health team