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The shift to hybrid and remote work arrangements has revolutionized how we approach work-life balance. Many employees enjoy the flexibility of working from home, and as Gallup reports, 93% of remote-capable workers prefer to maintain some level of remote work in their schedule. But is flexibility enough to improve employee well-being?
Research from Gallup and Workhuman highlights that flexibility alone isn’t sufficient to enhance the employee experience.
Instead, the key to a thriving workforce is creating a human-centered environment where management fosters a healthy, engaged team. The real driver of employee satisfaction and well-being is how well organizations manage expectations, recognize contributions, and support employees holistically.
Lessons for Leaders: How to Support Employee Wellbeing
- Set Clear Expectations: Unclear expectations are sources of anxiety for employees, leading to stress and diminished productivity. Gallup’s research shows that employees who clearly understand their role are 47% less likely to experience burnout. Regular, transparent communication from managers about daily expectations alleviates this stress, particularly in a hybrid or remote work environment.
- Collaborate on Goal Setting: Collaborative goal setting is essential to ensure employees work toward realistic and achievable outcomes. Managers should help employees set performance goals that align with the company’s objectives and employees’ work-life needs. Regular check-ins help ensure employees feel supported and motivated without the risk of burnout.
- Recognize and Celebrate Achievements: Recognition is more than just a pat on the back. It is a powerful tool for fostering engagement and emotional well-being. Employees who feel recognized are 4.2 times more likely to feel that their organization genuinely cares about them. Recognition should focus on contributions at work and in employees’ personal lives, reinforcing a healthy balance and appreciation for their efforts in and outside the office.
- Focus on the Human Element: Remote work arrangements might improve work-life balance for some, but they are no substitute for a positive, human-centered workplace culture. Managers who check in with their teams regularly, offer support and recognize their employees’ needs see better engagement and improved well-being across all work environments.
- Empower Your Workforce: Empowerment goes beyond delegation—it involves providing employees with the tools, resources, and autonomy to thrive. This is particularly important in remote or hybrid environments where employees may feel isolated. Empowerment also comes from giving employees opportunities to provide feedback and ensuring their voices are heard within the organization.
- Lead with Flexibility and Trust: Hybrid and remote work are most successful when managers trust their employees to manage their time effectively. Instead of micromanaging, focus on results and allow employees the flexibility they need to maintain balance. This boosts productivity and fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership over their work.
Action Steps for Leaders:
- Schedule regular one-on-one meetings with your team to ensure clarity around goals and expectations.
- Implement a recognition program that highlights both work and non-work achievements.
- Foster open communication channels for feedback and create forums for discussing challenges and successes related to work-life balance.
- Ensure all employees feel supported and engaged regardless of their work location through consistent outreach and team-building initiatives.
The Journey Ahead
From my perspective,
People want to work where they feel valued. Organizations that prioritize employee well-being, in turn, retain talent, cultivate loyalty, and foster innovation.
By focusing on well-being, setting clear expectations, and recognizing your team’s contributions, you will build an environment where employees thrive, regardless of where they do their work!