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.
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.
Ask open questions, listen attentively and remember to allow room for pauses.
You’re always welcome to reach out to us if you need advice on wellbeing or support in handling a difficult conversation.
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