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Lighten the Load: How Managers Can Champion Team Wellbeing



In the fast-paced modern workplace, managers often find themselves juggling numerous responsibilities, from meeting deadlines and targets to overseeing projects. But amidst the chaos, there lies a hidden power that managers possess - the ability to champion the wellbeing of their team members and in turn make a real impact on individual wellbeing, job satisfaction and business performance.


Here, we will explore how managers can become true advocates for their wellbeing of their team members, whilst continuing to drive performance, loyalty, and commitment.


Cultivate Trust

Trust is the invincible shield that fortifies your team. Trust is built through open communication, transparency, and providing team members with agency and autonomy.


Trust starts at the top, and as a leader, it is essential to lead by example. Be transparent, honest, and consistent in your actions and decisions. Show integrity by delivering on your promises and admitting your mistakes. When your team members see you embody trustworthiness, they will feel more inclined to follow suit.


Create a safe and inclusive space for open communication. Encourage your team members to share their opinions, ideas, and concerns without fear of judgment or retribution. Actively listen to their perspectives and show appreciation for their input. Regularly seek feedback and communicate transparently to build a culture of trust and collaboration.


Shape-Shift Success

In the war against burnout and stress, flexibility offers your team members the ability to find balance and work in a way that suits their lifestyle and often leads to greater levels of job satisfaction. Managers who understand the importance of work-life integration can offer their team members the freedom to set flexible schedules or work remotely when needed.


Recognise that everyone has different preferences and peak productivity times. Embracing a results-oriented mindset rather than fixating on hours spent at the desk can save team members from being under the heavy weight of rigidity. However, you will still need to set clear expectations with your flexible working employees regarding client deadlines and team meetings. Clearly communicate the importance of meeting these commitments and ensure that everyone understands the impact of their timely contributions to the team's success. This establishes a shared understanding of responsibilities and encourages accountability.


Recognise that flexibility does not mean complete freedom from constraints. Establish certain boundaries or core working hours to ensure that team members are available for collaborative work, client interactions, and meetings.


Throughout this process, maintain open lines of communication with your team to ensure that flexibility remains a positive experience for everyone. Conduct regular check-ins to discuss goals, progress, and challenges. Provide feedback and guidance to support your team members in managing their flexible work arrangements effectively.


The Power of Appreciation

Everyone needs a well-deserved pat on the back, and your team members are no exception. Tap into the power of appreciation by recognising and celebrating your team's accomplishments. From shout-outs during meetings to personalised thank-you notes, managers can uplift their team members and fuel their motivation. When team members know their efforts are valued, often they’re commitment and determination increases.


Recognise and celebrate significant milestones, whether personal or professional, to show your team members that their accomplishments matter. Birthdays, promotions, work anniversaries, and significant accomplishments are great opportunities to show appreciation. Consider hosting a team lunch or organising a small gift or token of appreciation to commemorate the occasion.


Time Management Support

Bring in an expert to conduct workshops or training sessions on effective time management techniques, where they can learn different strategies such as the Eisenhower Matrix, Pomodoro Technique, or time blocking to help them prioritise and manage their workload effectively. This can take as little as 30-minutes, yet it can have a profound effect and lasting effect on reducing stress within the team.


Harness Wellness Activities

Encouraging practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or even organising team wellness activities can help team members find their inner calm amidst the chaos. By prioritising mental wellbeing and fostering a culture of self-care, managers can empower their team members to recharge, refocus, and unleash their full potential.


Encourage your team members to take breaks and engage in physical exercise. This could involve setting up an area for stretching or going for a walk together.


By combining these elements and fostering connection, trust, flexibility, recognition, and mindfulness, you can transform your team into a league of leaders who tackle challenges with resilience, and creativity.

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