The UK is home to some of the world’s leading businesses, and it is essential that these businesses not only thrive economically but also become better employers. Currently, over two-thirds of employees are happy in their job roles. However, over 10 million Brits are unhappy in the workplace, which can lead to a loss of productivity, working hours and low morale. Employers looking to improve their business and increase productivity must focus on employee satisfaction and become better employees. Check out these tips to get started.
Provide flexible working options
A flexible working arrangement is an agreement that allows an employee to work in a way that suits both the employee and the business. Employees who are provided with a flexible working arrangement are more productive and happy. While this might not be possible for every job, it is a legal requirement that all employees have the right to request flexibility. Employers must consider this when possible within their company. Flexible working can mean adjusting a parent’s working days based on the school run or traffic issues; it can allow someone to work from home in the event of emergencies or illnesses, or it can be restructuring their working day to a more convenient time.
Pay attention to employee wellness and mental health.
According to the World Health Organization, mental health issues have become the leading cause of disability. The UK’s National Health Service has reported that 37% of UK employees have experienced mental health issues. A staggering 40% of UK businesses said that mental health issues significantly impacted employee productivity. It is, therefore, clear that mental health is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. In order to become better employers, UK businesses must pay attention to employee wellness and mental health. Having employee support services in place will help you support employees when needed.
Offer a fair wage and benefits package.
When it comes to becoming a better employer, there is no more important factor than paying your employees a fair wage and providing them with a comprehensive and quality benefits package. Businesses that pay their employees a fair wage and provide them with a benefits package are more likely to attract and retain talent. Moreover, it is essential to note that it is the law in the UK for employees to be paid at least the National Minimum Wage, which is currently £9.50 per hour for people aged 23 years and over.
Provide employees with the right tools and a safe working environment
A safe working environment is an essential part of becoming a better employer. This is particularly important in the UK, where work-related illnesses and injuries are a significant issue. The Health and Safety Executive estimates that more than 3 million working days are lost annually due to work-related illnesses and injuries. The £16 billion (around $35 billion) annual loss that this causes the UK economy highlights the need for businesses to provide their employees with the right tools and a safe working environment. When providing employees with the tools and equipment, they need to do their job; businesses should ensure that these items are safe and meet all relevant health and safety standards. Companies can also help to create a safe working environment by conducting regular risk assessments. This will allow businesses to identify and reduce the risks associated with their work.
Conclusion
It is important to note that becoming a better employer is not a one-off event. It is a continuous process that requires dedication and effort. By following the best practices outlined in this article, UK businesses can be a positive force in the workplace and help to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
