What is employee wellness and why is it important?

Today, the term employee wellness is gradually gaining relevance in the world of modern businesses and human resources agencies. Despite of what it might seem at first glance, the concept of employee wellness goes beyond just being physically healthy. 

In fact, the current vision of employee wellness in human resources expands and reaches aspects that used to be secondary for the wellbeing of workers. Do you know what is workplace wellness? In this article you will know what this means and how it manifests in the work life. 

What is employee wellness? 

Employee wellness is the state of satisfaction employees must have while dealing with their regular tasks at work. The goal is to offer employees a work environment in which they can meet all their needs in a balanced manner. 

We must keep in mind that the work sphere occupies a significant part of our lives. Hence, it influences our wellbeing even after working hours. You might be wondering: is employee wellbeing really that relevant? Well, let’s analyze its importance. 

Why is employee wellness important? 

Common threats at work such as employee burnout are still partially neglected by most businesses. However, the current changes in the working life and the higher competition for talent push companies to give employee wellness the importance it deserves. 

Also, let’s not forget that the problems and needs afflicting employees end up having a negative impact in their performance. That usually results in high stress levels, lack of engagement, worker absenteeism, among other issues. 

For that reason it’s so important for companies to implement employee wellness programs and taking into account workers’ needs. Ultimately, that will have a visible effect in the company’s productivity. 

Benefits of employee wellness 

One of the main benefits of employee wellness is a significant upgrade in employee performance. By taking into account all the variables that contribute to the balance and wellbeing of the work sphere, companies can achieve an increase in employees’ engagement, motivation and commitment. 

Another benefit that we can’t ignore is that by applying an employee wellness program you get a reduction in the company’s turnover rate. When they feel valued by the company they work for, workers are less likely to change jobs. Therefore, in companies where employee wellness is taken into account there is a higher talent retention. 

You might also like: Emerging recruitment trends for 2022 

Dimensions of employee wellness 

A In the past, paying attention to employee wellness only meant offering healthcare benefits. It was just that basic. Today, we know that the concept of wellbeing includes a lot more than just its physical aspect. 

That’s why today the concept of employee wellness is made up of different dimensions. Each one of these constitutes an important sphere for employees. Here, we will take a look at some of the most relevant. 

1. Physical wellness 

This is the traditional dimension most companies consider while talking about wellness at the workplace. Here we take into account all those aspects that have influence over the physical wellbeing of people such as physical activity or the proper diet. 

Companies tend to focus on this dimension by means of healthcare or safety measures at the work premises. However, some other actions can be offering ergonomic equipment to employees (regardless if they are at the office or at home) or creating exercises programs at work. 

2. Emotional wellness 

This is a dimension that can be somewhat overlooked by some companies, but one that has significant weight over employees’ performance. Here we must consider that stress is a constant threat for most of people at work. 

Some organizations focus on this dimension by training team leaders to distinguish potential emotional problems in workers they are in charge of. Other measures can be offering flexible schedules or implementing psychological support programs. 

3. Financial wellness 

In this dimension the objective is to get employees to reach financial stability. That can help them achieve their objectives in the short and long term. However, this is not just about offering a raise or bonus, but giving them the proper instruction. 

For that purpose, employers must encourage the correct financial culture so that employees can obtain the knowledge and the tools necessaries to manage their personal finances the right way. 

Now you know the definition of employee wellness and its importance for modern companies. Don’t forget that this concept can be very beneficial for businesses and employees alike. After all, the employees’ wellness ends up being the company’s wellness as well. 

At Talent2Win, we strive to align your company’s business objectives with the best Talent Acquisition strategies available. If you want to learn more about the services we offer, do not hesitate to contact us.