Fostering a resilient workforce: prioritising employee wellbeing and work-life balance in the Not-For-Profit sector

 As organisations within this sector strive to make a difference, it is essential to recognise the importance of employee wellbeing and resilience. The mental health and work-life balance of NFP employees significantly impact their effectiveness, productivity, and overall satisfaction. 

According to the Australian Psychological Society’s 2021 Stress and Wellbeing in Australia survey, work-related stress has increased significantly since the previous survey in 2019, with one in three Australians experiencing high levels of distress.

With statistics like this, it is more important than ever to explore why employee wellbeing and resilience are critical in the NFP sector and discuss the role of leaders in fostering supportive work environments. By prioritising the mental health of employees, organisations can cultivate a motivated and engaged workforce, ultimately leading to more impactful outcomes.

Importance of employee wellbeing and resilience in the NFP sector

Enhanced productivity and effectiveness

Research consistently demonstrates that employee wellbeing positively correlates with productivity and job performance. In the NFP sector, where the focus is on addressing societal challenges, the ability of employees to perform at their best is paramount. By promoting wellbeing, organisations can create an environment that supports employees in delivering high-quality services and achieving meaningful outcomes.

Improved retention and talent attraction

Employee turnover poses significant challenges for NFP organisations, including increased recruitment costs and the loss of institutional knowledge. Prioritising employee wellbeing and resilience can foster a positive workplace culture that promotes job satisfaction and reduces burnout. This, in turn, improves employee retention and attracts top talent to the sector, strengthening organisational effectiveness.

Positive impact on mission delivery

NFP organisations exist to make a positive impact on society, and employee wellbeing is directly linked to the fulfillment of this mission. When employees feel supported and valued, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and passionate about their work. This, in turn, translates into higher-quality services, better community outcomes, and ultimately, a stronger NFP sector.

Role of leaders in fostering supportive work environments

Leaders need to recognise that employee wellbeing is not a luxury but a necessity. They should prioritise mental health and work-life balance initiatives within their organisations. By implementing the following strategies, leaders can foster supportive work environments in the NFP sector:

• Promoting open communication and psychological safety: create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health and personal challenges openly. By promoting open communication and fostering psychological safety, leaders can remove the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage employees to seek support when needed. 
• Leading by example: prioritise wellbeing and demonstrate a healthy work-life balance that sets the tone for teams. By modelling positive behaviours and emphasising the importance of self-care, leaders create a culture that values employee wellbeing. 
• Establishing wellbeing policies: develop comprehensive wellbeing policies that address mental health support, work-life balance, and employee assistance programs. These policies should be regularly communicated to employees, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to their wellbeing.
• Providing professional development opportunities: invest in professional development programs that focus on stress management, resilience building, and self-care. These programs can empower employees with the skills to navigate challenges effectively and maintain their mental wellbeing.
• Encouraging regular breaks and time off: promote the importance of taking breaks and utilising leave. By encouraging employees to disconnect from work and recharge, leaders show their commitment to work-life balance and help prevent burnout.
• Creating supportive team cultures: foster an inclusive and supportive team culture where colleagues can lean on each other for support. Encouraging open dialogue, empathy, and collaboration creates a sense of community and enhances employee wellbeing.
• Recognising and rewarding efforts: acknowledge and reward employees’ contributions and efforts. Recognising achievements and milestones not only boosts morale but also validates employees’ dedication and hard work.
• Monitoring workloads: ensure that workloads are reasonable and manageable, considering the capacity of their employees. Regularly assessing and redistributing tasks can help prevent overwhelming workloads and promote a healthier work environment.
• Engaging in regular check-ins: conduct regular one-on-one check-ins with team members to discuss their wellbeing, concerns, and career aspirations. These check-ins provide an opportunity for leaders to offer support, identify areas for improvement, and ensure employees’ needs are being met.

Promoting employee wellbeing and resilience is crucial in the NFP sector, as it directly impacts organisational effectiveness and the ability to make a positive impact on society. By prioritising mental health, work-life balance, and supportive work environments, leaders in the Australian NFP sector can create thriving workplaces that attract and retain top talent, enhance productivity, and ultimately contribute to more successful outcomes. By adopting these strategies, leaders can pave the way for a healthier and more resilient workforce in the NFP sector.

This article was originally published at Meritos.com.