Trends in Workplace Wellbeing: What’s New and What’s Next?

Trends in Workplace Wellbeing: What’s New and What’s Next?

In today’s evolving work landscape, workplace wellbeing has become a central focus for companies looking to foster a productive and engaged workforce. At Smith & Co, we understand that a happy and healthy team is key to driving success. As we navigate the latest trends in workplace wellbeing, we're excited to share how we prioritise the health and satisfaction of our own team and what’s shaping the future of work.

Smith & Co’s Commitment to Employee Wellbeing

At Smith & Co, we pride ourselves on maintaining a positive and open work environment where our employees thrive. Our approach to wellbeing is multifaceted, focusing on both professional and personal satisfaction:

• Healthy Work Environment: We create an atmosphere where open communication is encouraged, and every team member feels valued and heard. The company directors actively check in with staff, host light hearted team catchups each Monday morning, and adhere to an ‘open door policy’ that allow staff to feel like they can express any concerns they have.
• Incentives and Rewards: We believe in celebrating our team’s milestones and wins big and small. That’s why we offer unique perks like a paid day off on birthdays, regular team lunches, Friday knock off drinks in office and engaging company events.
• Special Rewards: Most recently, to mark our success at the end of the financial year, we rewarded our team with a holiday to Queenstown for a week long ski trip. This gesture highlights our commitment to acknowledging the teams work, and exemplifies our work hard play hard ethos.

Latest Trends in Workplace Wellbeing

As the workplace continues to evolve, we've noticed several key trends emerging in the realm of employee wellbeing:

• Holistic Health Approaches: Companies are increasingly adopting holistic wellbeing programs that address mental, physical, and emotional health. This includes offering wellness allowances, mental health resources, and programs that promote work-life balance. On this front, Smith & Co prioritise the teams health by hosting group exercise classes, and offering a monthly wellness allowance for each employee to put towards any physical or mental health costs.
• Mental Health Focus: There’s a growing emphasis on mental health support within the workplace. Companies are implementing initiatives such as counselling     services, stress management workshops, and mental health days. To get on board with this, Smith & Co have an EAP program in place that allow staff to have anonymous access to 6 counselling sessions per year.
• Personal Development Opportunities: Employers are investing in their teams' personal growth by providing opportunities for skill development, career coaching, and continuous learning. Smith & Co have introduced a Furthered Learning Initiative that give staff 2 hours of paid study leave per week, along with $1500 per year to allocate to furthered learning.
• Inclusive and Supportive Culture: A positive work culture that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion is becoming a priority. Creating an environment where everyone feels respected and supported is crucial for overall wellbeing.

Shaping the Future of Work

The future of work is increasingly centred around employee wellbeing, and it’s clear that companies must adapt to these changing expectations to remain competitive. At Smith & Co, we’re leading the way by integrating these trends into our own practices and setting a standard for others to follow suit. By focusing on holistic health, flexible arrangements, and a supportive culture, we’re not just enhancing our team's wellbeing but also paving the way for a more positive and productive work environment.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to evolving with these trends and continuing to offer our team a workplace that values their health, happiness, and professional growth. The future of work is bright, and at Smith& Co, we’re excited to continue on our employee wellbeing journey.

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