by Jim Taylor | Nov 28, 2023 | Employee Benefits, Employee Recruitment, Mental Health in the Workplace
The world of employee benefits is transforming significantly due to changing work dynamics and post-pandemic employee needs. There’s no question that COVID-19 reshaped the way we work. In addition to changing what day-to-day work life looks like, the pandemic shone a spotlight on adaptable benefits, particularly ‘Time Off.’ This could be good news.
Although many companies embrace the changes that occurred then, such as remote work and flexible schedules, others pine for a return to “normalcy.” Some are adopting a middle-ground “hybrid” approach as a sort of compromise.
As businesses navigate the changing tides, understanding the importance of time off is crucial. It goes a long way toward ensuring employee well-being, productivity, and satisfaction.
Here at Launchways, we take a closer look at this fascinating trend.
Changing Priorities in Employee Benefit Trends
The pandemic reshaped the understanding of traditional employee benefits, highlighting the emergence of ‘Time Off’ as a critical aspect. In a landscape fluctuating between remote, hybrid, and office setups, recognizing the value of time away from work has become essential.
It’s more than just vacations; it’s about meeting the evolving needs of a workforce seeking flexibility, mental health support, and work-life balance.
Addressing Post-Pandemic Employee Needs
Employees’ needs have transformed post-pandemic, with mental health concerns rising sharply alongside the demand for flexible work arrangements. These concerns significantly affect workforce productivity, with an estimated global loss of 12 billion workdays annually to depression and anxiety, costing about $1 trillion.
Both companies and workers look for answers. Unfortunately, many are unaware of their options, and many more need help navigating them.
Simplifying Time-Off Laws and Regulations
Navigating paid leave laws like Paid Family Leave (PFL) alongside existing ones such as the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) has become more complex. Changes in state regulations, like those in Oregon and Colorado, add confusion.
Managing Family and Medical Leave (FML) can be tricky, requiring a knowledgeable HR team to ensure compliance and guide employees through the process.
Prioritizing Employee Understanding and Accessibility
Educating employees about their rights under FMLA is crucial. When employees know how to request leave and what documents are required, they’re more likely to seek help when needed. Ensuring job security upon return and providing a simple process to request FMLA, integrated with other benefits, is essential for consistency and ease.
Offering ‘Time Off’ as a Premier Benefit
‘Time Off’ has expanded its role in employee benefits, directly impacting employee satisfaction, retention, and overall well-being. To ensure more accessible access to FML (Family and Medical Leave), simplifying the request process by integrating it with other employee benefits, like 401K, payroll deductions, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), proves effective. A unified platform or system that merges FML with these benefits streamlines accessibility.
Employing standardized software prevents inconsistencies, which is vital for large employers managing different regional accesses, promoting uniformity in FML availability. This approach eliminates barriers and enhances access to crucial leave benefits.
Offering ample vacation time isn’t just a perk; it’s an investment in workforce health and productivity. But how can your company effectively manage employee time off in these complex times?
Strategies for Effective Time-Off Management
Adapting HR strategies is vital to meet evolving workforce preferences. Customizable leave policies, automation, and technology-driven solutions streamline leave management, optimizing workforce productivity.
HR’s Responsibility in Effective Policy Implementation
HR leaders are crucial in aligning policies with employee needs and business goals. Educating employees, ensuring compliance, and fostering an equitable work environment are essential components.
Prioritizing ‘Time Off’ for a Thriving Workforce
Ample leave reduces burnout, enhances mental health, and boosts employee satisfaction, positively impacting organizational performance.
Challenges and Solutions in Embracing ‘Time Off’
Managing time off amid changing laws requires clear guidelines and simplified processes, ensuring employees understand their rights.
Key Takeaways
‘Time Off’ has evolved into a cornerstone of modern employee benefits. Recognizing its impact on well-being, productivity, and organizational success is crucial. Businesses must embrace and prioritize this evolving benefit to cultivate a resilient workforce in the post-pandemic era.
- Prioritize understanding employee needs for flexibility and mental health support.
- Educate employees about FMLA rights for easy access to support when needed.
- Integrate FMLA request processes with other benefits for consistency and simplicity.
- Recognize the strategic value of ‘Time Off’ in fostering a healthier, more productive workforce.
As time passes, it becomes increasingly evident that change is here to stay. The “new normal” requires a degree of flexibility. We at Launchways intend to remain up-to-date and will ensure our clients remain informed.
by Jim Taylor | Nov 20, 2023 | Company Culture, Employee Retention, Human Resources, Mental Health in the Workplace, Uncategorized
HR strategies, mental wellness, inclusivity, workplace productivity. These are more than just buzzwords. Together, they form the framework that results in a well-managed workforce of content employees or an environment of apathy.
It’s no secret that today’s work environment is a dynamic canvas, constantly shifting and demanding new strategies to optimize productivity and support employee wellness. As HR specialists, our role is pivotal in adapting strategies to optimize productivity while prioritizing employee wellness.
As someone who’s been in HR services for years, I understand the challenge of adapting to these changing needs. That’s why Launchways is here to share some insights and strategies to navigate these changes effectively.
Flexibility: Embracing Change for Better Work Dynamics
Remember when the traditional 9-to-5 was the gold standard in Chicago? Well, times have changed. The rise of remote work and hybrid models has challenged the norms. Embracing this change by offering flexible schedules or remote options can significantly boost morale and productivity.
In fact, flexibility has become one of the most common employee demands in recent years. According to Achievers Workforce Institute (AWI), it is the number one reason workers change jobs. Hybrid work schedules allow for better work-life balance. It offers a more relaxed, focused approach to tasks resulting in up to a 20% increase in employee satisfaction.
Efficiency: Streamlining HR Processes for Maximum Output
Efficiency – the holy grail of productivity remains the cornerstone of productivity. Embracing automation tools within HR operations can work wonders. From applicant tracking systems to onboarding software, automation minimizes manual tasks, letting your team focus on what truly matters.
I remember when the recruitment process was time-consuming and arduous. It used to take weeks. With the integration of automated systems, we witnessed a remarkable reduction in hiring time. It cut that down by half allowing our team to concentrate efforts on engaging with potential candidates more effectively.
Inclusivity: Fostering Diversity for a Supportive Environment
Inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the cornerstone of a thriving workplace. Creating an inclusive workplace goes beyond fulfilling diversity quotas; it’s about valuing different perspectives and creating an environment where everyone feels respected and heard.
Initiatives like mentorship programs focusing on diverse talent have proven instrumental in nurturing a sense of belonging and driving innovation through varied viewpoints.
Mental Wellness: Prioritizing Employee Health and Resilience
Employee well-being is non-negotiable. They are integral components of a productive workforce. Prioritizing mental health support programs and promoting work-life balance isn’t just a nice gesture – it’s crucial.
Witnessing a colleague burn out due to a heavy workload and lack of support was an eye-opener. It really highlighted the urgency for prioritizing employee well-being.
Implementing regular check-ins, wellness seminars, and flexible hours has helped us not only retain talent but also boosted overall productivity and creativity.
Automated Solutions: Revolutionizing HR Practices
Welcome to the age of AI and machine learning! The adoption of AI-driven recruitment tools has revolutionized HR’s hiring process in the following ways:
- Enhancing decision-making capabilities through data analysis
- Improving candidate sourcing
- Offering insights for strategic planning
The implementation of AI-driven recruitment tools not only expedited our hiring process but also facilitated the identification of top talent, leading to reduced turnover rates. They don’t just make life easier. It’s like having a reliable assistant who never sleeps!
Actionable Steps for HR Leaders
In this ever-evolving landscape, HR leaders hold the compass to navigate through change successfully. Embracing flexibility, streamlining processes, fostering inclusivity, prioritizing mental wellness, and integrating automated solutions are the pillars of building a resilient, thriving workplace.
Assess your current HR practices. Identify bottlenecks and areas where automation can lend a helping hand. Invest in tools that align with your company’s culture and goals. Remember, employee feedback should be your guide. Adapt and evolve based on their needs.
So, fellow HR practitioners, let us collectively steer our organizations toward a workplace that not only thrives in productivity but also champions the holistic well-being of every individual. Together, we can create a workspace where success and happiness coexist.
For more information, reach out to the professionals at Launchways.
by Jim Taylor | Sep 12, 2023 | Employee Benefits, Human Resources, Mental Health in the Workplace, Uncategorized
In recent years, the workplace landscape has undergone significant changes, largely influenced by the unprecedented events of the COVID-19 pandemic. As we approach 2024, a new trend has emerged that is taking precedence in the minds of corporate leaders and HR professionals alike: mental health.
Businesses have seen workers dealing with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, or having problems with substance abuse. Unfortunately, the problem has worsened. In 2023, employers reporting mental health problems among their employees rose from 44% to 77%. As many as 16% believe the problem will continue to get worse.
Mental health concerns are not only impacting the employees of large corporations but also smaller businesses. To deal with this in 2024, employers are exploring strategies to prepare for mental health challenges that lie ahead for businesses of all sizes.
Mental Health Issues Also Affect Smaller Businesses
The growing awareness of mental health issues is not confined to large corporations; it extends its reach to smaller businesses as well. In fact, mental wellness challenges are often felt more acutely in smaller organizations due to limited resources and support systems.
Several factors contribute to the impact of mental health on smaller businesses:
Close-knit Work Environments: Smaller businesses often have a more familial atmosphere, which can be both a strength and a weakness. While it fosters strong bonds among employees, it also means that mental health issues are more visible and can have a cascading effect on team dynamics.
Limited Resources: Smaller businesses may lack the financial resources to invest in comprehensive mental health programs or hire dedicated mental health professionals. This limitation can make it challenging to provide adequate support to employees dealing with mental health concerns.
Stress and Workload: In smaller teams, a single employee’s absence or reduced productivity can significantly impact the overall workload. This can lead to heightened stress levels and burnout, further exacerbating mental health issues.
Lack of Awareness: Smaller businesses may not have the same level of awareness and education regarding mental health as larger corporations. This can result in a lack of understanding and a failure to recognize the signs of mental health challenges.
Given these factors, it is evident that mental wellness concerns are not limited to a specific company size or industry. Smaller businesses are equally affected, and addressing mental health issues is imperative for fostering a healthy workplace environment and sustaining employee well-being.
How Can Companies Prepare for Health Care Challenges Ahead?
As mental health takes center stage in corporate concerns heading into 2024, companies of all sizes must proactively prepare for the healthcare challenges that lie ahead. Here are some strategies that organizations can adopt to address mental health and promote mental wellness:
Create a Stigma-Free Environment
One of the first steps in addressing mental health in the workplace is to create a stigma-free environment. Encourage open conversations about mental wellness and ensure employees feel safe discussing their challenges without fear of judgment. This can be achieved through awareness campaigns, workshops, and training programs.
Implement Mental Health Programs
Offering mental health programs and resources is crucial. These programs can include Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counselling services, stress management workshops, and access to mental health professionals. Companies should invest in these resources to provide employees with needed support.
Flexible Work Arrangements
Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options and flexible hours, can help employees better manage their mental health. These arrangements provide the flexibility to balance work with personal life and mental wellness.
Training for Managers
Managers play a pivotal role in supporting employees’ mental health. Provide training to managers on recognizing signs of mental health issues, having empathetic conversations, and connecting employees with appropriate resources.
Employee Wellness Initiatives
Wellness initiatives encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being can significantly impact. Encourage activities such as mindfulness and meditation sessions, fitness programs, and wellness challenges to promote overall health.
Evaluate Health Insurance Plans
Review and enhance health insurance plans to provide comprehensive coverage for mental health services. Ensure employees have access to mental health professionals and treatment without financial barriers.
Regular Surveys and Feedback Loops
Establish regular surveys and feedback mechanisms to gauge employee well-being and gather insights into the effectiveness of mental health initiatives. Use this data to refine and improve programs.
Inclusivity and Diversity
Promote inclusivity and diversity in the workplace, as a diverse workforce can bring unique perspectives and experiences related to mental wellness. Ensure that inclusivity is a core value of the company culture.
Encourage Work-Life Balance
Encourage employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Discourage overworking and emphasize the importance of taking time off when needed.
The Takeaway
As we approach 2024, mental health has risen to the forefront of corporate concerns, affecting both large and smaller businesses. Recognizing the significance of mental health in the workplace is the first step toward creating a healthier and more productive work environment.
Companies can prepare for the healthcare challenges ahead by adopting a holistic approach that includes destigmatization, the implementation of mental health programs, flexible work arrangements, manager training, wellness initiatives, improved insurance coverage, employee feedback mechanisms, and a commitment to inclusivity and work-life balance.
In the evolving landscape of corporate priorities, mental health and human resources professionals have a vital role in fostering mental wellness and ensuring that employees thrive professionally and personally. By addressing mental health challenges head-on, companies can build a healthier, more engaged workforce and better equipped to navigate the demands of the modern workplace.
by Jim Taylor | Aug 29, 2023 | Employee Benefits, Human Resources, Mental Health in the Workplace
Mental health continues to be a hot topic of conversation among HR leaders and health insurance providers. Recently, the Departments of Labor (DOL), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the IRS proposed a rule to amend the existing Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA).
With the DOL’s recent request for input from Group Health Plans and issuers regarding Nonquantitative Treatment Limitations (NQTLs), companies should prepare. They can anticipate ongoing discussions about how mental health benefits are administered.
Following their proposed rule, the three departments issued their second yearly report to Congress. In it, they examined mental health parity according to the rules of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (CAA).
Here are the highlights.
Common Issues With Mental Health Parity
Unfortunately, only a few Group Health Plans did well. Most failed to meet the criteria guaranteeing equal treatment between medical/surgical and mental health benefits. Furthermore, according to numerous comparative analyses, many issuers still needed improvement. This was even after receiving multiple warnings.
Problems with parity concerning mental health benefits could be categorized into six groups.
- Annual dollar limits
- Limits on treatment, such as coverage duration, frequency, visit count, etc.
- Overall lifetime dollar limits
- Financial prerequisites, such as co-payments, coinsurance, deductibles, etc.
- Accumulated financial prerequisites
- Benefits across all categories
Incidentally, this is an excellent checklist for companies to start reviewing their mental health benefits. The goal is to streamline the review process and lessen the burden on health plans. This establishes a data-driven method for assessing whether these limitations comply with the law.
Although few issuers will undergo government audits, they are still required to comply with the rules. Therefore, the evaluation of benefits through an NQTL analysis and adoption of tactics to ensure parity is necessary.
Reviewing Mental Health Benefits
Take the time to review agreements with your plan’s providers. Plans are fiduciaries. That means, as employers, you are responsible for decisions regarding MHPAEA compliance. There are a couple of things to consider as your company reviews its plan design and benefits.
- How successful is the existing language at addressing mental health benefits?
- Do restrictions or limits exist for mental health issues that do not exist for medical/surgical benefits?
As a decision-maker for your company, you should know your plan’s benefits regarding mental health. In fact, you should be capable of explaining them to employees.
Completing an NQTLs Analysis
Conducting an NQTLs analysis is a given. It has been required since February 2021. In the future, group health plans will be required to gather and assess relevant data. At a minimum, that includes data required by state laws regarding NQTLs and details about the number and percentages of denied claims. This helps determine how NQTLs affect access to mental health and substance use disorder benefits.
For ERISA plans, a named fiduciary may certify compliance with the rules and a review of the results. They must verify when the analysis is completed and cooperate with an audit if needed.
If the MHPAEA Proposed Rule is accepted, the new requirements apply to plans beginning January 2025. Until then, companies must continue to comply with the existing MHPAEA and CAA requirements.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, carefully reviewing agreements with plan providers is crucial. Take a close look at the agreements you have with plan providers. The employer is held accountable for any mistakes or choices related to compliance with the MHPAEA. That holds true whether the plan is fully insured or self-funded.
For self-funded plans that work with one or more TPAs (Third Party Administrators), schedule time for discussions about benefits. These conversations should help companies to:
- Engage in the necessary actions
- Pose the right questions
- Carry out a thorough analysis
For fully insured plans, pay attention to the specifics. You should thoroughly understand your plan’s mental health benefits so you can explain them to participants.
This proactive approach is essential. It ensures that mental health parity is upheld and participants receive the benefits to which they are entitled.
by Jim Taylor | Aug 24, 2023 | Human Resources, Mental Health in the Workplace
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on employee well-being and mental health. When the pandemic struck, it affected the work life of many people in varied and unexpected ways. Issues like childcare, healthcare, and remote work have become everyday concerns for many companies. This new reality led to new and renewed concerns about work-life balance, employee burnout, and “Zoom fatigue.” People found themselves working longer hours and taking fewer vacations, worried about losing their jobs. Overall, this has had a negative impact on the collective mental health.
With the added economic instability, the situation can create unhealthy and toxic work environments. Employees might feel like they can’t speak up for fear of retaliation, causing them to be anxious and stressed. This is why psychological safety is so important. It’s the ability to express oneself without fear of retaliation. When employees feel psychologically safe, they can be themselves, take risks, admit their mistakes, ask for help, and communicate honestly.
While companies have historically invested in physical safety in the workplace, psychological safety hasn’t always been a priority. It’s often seen as a nice-to-have instead of a necessity. This needs to change. Companies should prioritize employee mental health and make investments in psychological safety. By doing so, employees can feel safe and comfortable at work, leading to better performance, improved teamwork, and a more positive work environment.
What Is Psychological Safety?
Psychological safety is the belief that one can speak up, take risks, and express oneself without fear of negative consequences. In the workplace, psychological safety allows employees to share ideas, ask questions, and make mistakes without fear of punishment or ridicule. It creates an environment where employees feel comfortable and confident in their ability to express themselves and take risks.
Why is Psychological Safety in the Workplace Important?
Psychological safety is important in the workplace for several reasons. It fosters open communication and collaboration among employees. When employees feel safe to express their thoughts and ideas, they are more likely to work together and share knowledge, leading to better problem-solving and innovation.
Plus, it promotes employee well-being and mental health. When employees feel psychologically safe, they are less likely to experience stress, anxiety, or burnout. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, improved productivity, and reduced absenteeism.
What Are the Challenges?
Creating a culture of psychological safety in the workplace can be challenging. Many workplaces are hierarchical, with a clear power dynamic between managers and employees. This can create a culture of fear and prevent employees from speaking up or taking risks.
Additionally, there may be cultural or societal norms that discourage open expression and risk-taking. Overcoming these challenges requires a concerted effort from both management and employees.
How Can Employers Promote Psychological Safety in the Workplace?
First, employers can encourage open communication and collaboration among employees. This can be done by creating opportunities for employees to share their ideas and thoughts, such as team-building exercises or brainstorming sessions.
Second, employers can foster a culture of trust and respect. This can be achieved by valuing employees’ opinions, being transparent with information, and treating employees fairly and respectfully.
Third, employers can provide training and resources to help employees develop communication and conflict-resolution skills.
Finally, employers can create policies and procedures that support psychological safety, such as whistleblower protections and anonymous feedback channels.
In Conclusion
Psychological safety is an important concept in the workplace that promotes open communication, collaboration, and employee well-being. Creating a culture of psychological safety can be challenging, but employers can use HR solutions to promote it.
By fostering open communication, promoting trust and respect, providing training and resources, and creating policies and procedures that support psychological safety, employers can create a workplace where employees feel safe to express themselves and take risks.
by Jim Taylor | Aug 17, 2023 | Human Resources, Mental Health in the Workplace
Mental health is an essential aspect of well-being that affects every aspect of our lives, including work. According to the World Health Organization, mental health issues can affect productivity and work attendance, leading to significant economic consequences. Addressing mental health in the workplace is crucial to ensure a supportive and healthy work environment for employees.
Companies can play a massive role in raising mental health awareness and making it easier for employees to access help. This can be done by implementing meaningful initiatives and creating an environment where people feel comfortable asking for support.
An October 2022 survey by the American Psychological Association found that nearly 30% of American adults struggle to function due to their high levels of stress, while 76% report that their stress is clearly affecting their health. Mental health issues caused by stress in the workplace are a growing concern, prompting employers to wonder whether they should be doing a better job of providing mental health services.
In order to ensure that their employees are healthy and productive, HR leaders need to prioritize mental health services.
Understanding Mental Health Issues in the Workplace
The mental health needs of Americans have traditionally been ignored. With the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest that followed, awareness of this issue has increased, making it easier to speak about it openly. Before employers can address mental health issues, however, it’s crucial to understand the common mental health concerns that employees may face.
Some of the most common mental health issues in the workplace include depression, anxiety, and burnout. However, many employees may hesitate to speak up about their mental health struggles due to the stigma surrounding mental health.
Even though negative stereotypes still exist, real progress has been made in shifting this attitude. Employers must recognize the impact of mental health issues on employee productivity and well-being.
Signs and Symptoms of Mental Health Issues
Employers should be aware of the signs and symptoms of mental health issues. Symptoms can include changes in mood, behavior, and productivity. Physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and digestive problems can also be signs of mental health issues.
Untreated mental health issues can lead to a significant reduction in work performance and productivity. Employees may experience difficulty concentrating, completing tasks, and making decisions.
8 Tips for Creating a Supportive Workplace Culture
The workplace environment has a significant impact on employees’ mental health. Creating a supportive culture that encourages open communication and support can help reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. Provide a safe and inclusive workplace that values employee well-being by implementing the following steps.
- Implement a confidential workplace stress assessment and take action based on the results. You can purchase an assessment tool or collaborate with your health partner to create a customized one that caters to your employee population. Quarterly assessments are advisable, as they normalize the process and highlight seasonal stressors.
- Encourage mental health conversations to become a regular part of your company culture. Leaders and managers can share their own experiences with stress and the strategies they use to manage it while also encouraging their teams to do the same. It’s crucial to consistently promote your behavioral health programs rather than merely listing them in your benefits guide or burying them in the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Encouraging employees to take breaks and time off can help reduce work-related stress and burnout. Promoting healthy lifestyle habits such as exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep can help improve mental health.
- Offering flexible working arrangements such as remote work, flexible hours, and job sharing can help employees manage their work-life balance and reduce stress levels.
- Collaborate with a behavioral health provider that is suitable for your employee population and offers both in-person and virtual access. Providing access to mental health resources such as counseling, support groups, and mental health hotlines can help employees manage their mental health.
- Providing training on mental health awareness can help employees recognize signs of mental health issues and promote a supportive workplace. Employers can organize workshops, training, and awareness campaigns to educate employees about mental health issues and how to support colleagues who may be affected.
- Employers should take responsibility for stressors within their control that could be creating a toxic environment. They can identify and address work-related stressors contributing to poor mental health. This can include providing a manageable workload, offering support for time management, and ensuring employees have the necessary resources to complete their work effectively.
- Encouraging employees to seek professional help when needed is crucial to managing mental health issues. Employers can provide a list of mental health resources or offer an EAP that provides access to confidential counseling services.
Promoting mental health awareness campaigns can help reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Employers can organize workshops, training, and awareness campaigns to educate employees about mental health issues.
In Conclusion
Simply saying that you care about your employees’ mental health is not enough; you must ensure that your programs and policies reflect this. For instance, employers should provide accessible mental health resources and allow flexible time off to attend mental health-related events during work hours without the need for clocking out or taking a personal day.
Addressing mental health in the workplace is crucial for promoting employee well-being and productivity. Employers can take steps to create a supportive workplace culture. They can be mindful of the language used when discussing mental health and avoid using diagnoses as personality traits. Such language can contribute to stigma and may prevent individuals from seeking the help they need.
If a company provides an in-house therapy solution, it’s crucial to ensure that the office is not located near the HR leader’s office. While behavioral health is becoming more mainstream, privacy is still vital. By taking these steps, employers can help create a healthy and supportive workplace environment that values employee well-being and benefits both employees and the company as a whole.
