Healthy employees are happier (and more productive) employees
Corporate wellness first came about as a concept in the 90s and trickled down from larger corporations to becoming a major selling point for recruitment drives in the late 2000s. But why?
Well, it turns out that aside putting the emphasis on treating staff like valued human beings and not merely as cogs in the corporate wheel, companies are seeing a direct correlation in the place that determines if they sink or swim – the bottom line.
So, how exactly does a corporate wellness policy affect a company?
- Changed behavior
Assisting employees to adopt and maintain positive lifestyle changes that include being more active, increasing their fresh fruit and vegetable intake and staying hydrated will make them look and feel better and their overall life satisfaction will improve. That includes looking forward to coming to work. - Increased productivity
If employees are encouraged to prioritize their health, they’re going to see an improvement in their memory and focus. Wellness programs also make them feel more engaged, which encourages them to want to do their best. Research suggests that their improved efficiency is tangible: approximately 10.3 hours in additional productive time annually.
- Less absenteeism
If your employees are healthier and happier, it goes to say they’re going to take fewer sick days each year. You know that colleague that calls in sick at least one or two days per month and then everyone else has to scramble to cover for them? You’ll see a marked improvement there, with a higher attendance rate which will foster better intra-office relationships. - Increased company loyalty
Companies can no longer guarantee they will hire the best talent by offering a higher salary than their competitors, it means nothing when you’re putting 80-hour weeks in a thankless role. People want a more holistic work-life balance and are willing to work for less under the right circumstances. If great talent is happy with you, another company will struggle to poach them. - Decreased staff turnover
This is also really important. Having a high staff turnover means you’re your company will take a financial hit each time someone needs to be replaced. It can set the company back 33% of the employee’s annual salary to find, hire, and train a replacement. Healthy, happy people who feel valued in their organization are unlikely to leave after a year or two.
With no downsides, investing in creating a wellness program tailored to your team’s needs could be the missing ingredient to taking the business to the next level.
Healthy Living is a frequently updated content section brought to you by the Saudi Sports for All Federation. In the spirit of supporting our #HealthyActiveCommunity, we’re sharing tips around wellness, physical activity and more!
