We all expect a certain amount of workplace stress. After all, stress is what happens when you work hard to meet high expectations, and your employees are doing that. A little bit of stress can even be beneficial for certain people since some of us thrive under pressure.
Some Stress is Normal
However, too much stress is not good for anyone. When your employees feel overwhelmed by everything they have to do, it can weigh on them and keep them from functioning at their best. If they’re having difficulty maintaining a good work-life balance, they could start taking more time off than they normally would. If your employees don’t feel secure in their positions, they might start complaining to co-workers. This can lower morale throughout the organization.
Job Stress
A majority of Americans report that their jobs are the biggest source of stress in their lives, and it’s estimated that job-related stress costs American businesses as much as $300 billion every year in lost productivity. As an employer, it’s imperative that you help reduce workplace stress to support employee health, a positive workplace, productivity, and creativity.
Fortunately, reducing stress in the workplace doesn’t have to be complicated. There are many simple things employers can do that can make a big difference to create a more relaxed work environment that still allows employees to focus and give their best effort every day.
Stop Stress from Compounding
Stress tends to compound itself under relentless pressure, so something even as simple as encouraging employees to take 15-minute breaks can be extremely beneficial to reduce the overall stress level in the workplace. Stocking the break room with healthy snacks rather than the usual donuts and candy also can improve employees’ moods, and encourage them to lead healthier lifestyles.
Reducing stress in your workplace requires a few minor but significant changes to your office culture, but the benefits can be enormous. Not only will you increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your staff, and help your bottom line, but you’ll also be doing something to help your employees from a human perspective.
The following guide lists 10 simple ways employers can improve the stress levels in their workplaces, so take a look and see which of these ideas you can put to work in your office.