Corporate Culture & Wellness

How to Create a Wellness-Focused Corporate Culture

Perth- based companies are finally realising the importance of prioritising the well-being and good mental health of their employees. A wellness-focused corporate culture is no longer a nice-to-have, but a must-have for attracting and retaining top talent, improving productivity, and driving business success.

In Australia, research has shown that investing in employee wellness can have a significant impact on a company’s bottom line. A study by the Australian Government’s Department of Health found that for every dollar invested in workplace wellness programs, companies can expect a return of $3.60 in improved productivity and reduced absenteeism.

So, how can companies create a wellness-focused corporate culture that benefits both employees and the organisation as a whole?

Start with a Clear Vision and Commitment

The first step in creating a wellness-focused corporate culture is to establish a clear vision and commitment from senior leadership. This involves recognising the importance of employee well-being and making a deliberate decision to prioritise it.

Companies should develop a comprehensive wellness strategy that aligns with their core values and goals.

Your corporate wellness strategy should be communicated to all employees and stakeholders, and it should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it remains relevant and effective.

The corporate wellness space is changing rapidly and Perth companies need to keep up with global preceptions and events.

Provide Access to Wellness Programs and Services

One of the most effective ways to promote employee wellness is to provide access to wellness programs and services that cater to different needs and interests. This can include:

• Fitness classes, such as yoga or Pilates
• Meditation and mindfulness sessions
• Healthy eating workshops and nutrition counseling
• On-site fitness centers or gym memberships
• Employee assistance programs (EAPs) for mental health support
• Seated massage therapy for stress relief and relaxation

Seated massage, in particular, has been shown to be an effective way to reduce stress and improve mood in the workplace. A study by the University of South Australia found that employees who received regular seated massages experienced significant reductions in anxiety and depression, and reported improved sleep quality and overall well-being.

Foster a Culture of Open Communication and Support

A wellness-focused corporate culture is not just about providing access to wellness programs and services; it’s also about fostering a culture of open communication and support. This involves creating a safe and inclusive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health and well-being.

Companies should encourage open communication by providing resources and support for mental health, such as mental health days, mental health first aid training, and access to confidential counseling services.

Lead by Example and Encourage Leadership Buy-In

Leaders and managers play a critical role in promoting a wellness-focused corporate culture. They should lead by example by prioritising their own well-being and encouraging their team members to do the same.

Companies should provide training and resources for leaders and managers to support them in promoting employee wellness, such as wellness ambassador programs, mental health champions, or wellness committees.

Monitor Progress and Evaluate Effectiveness

Finally, companies should regularly monitor progress and evaluate the effectiveness of their wellness programs and services. This involves collecting data on employee participation, engagement, and feedback, as well as measuring the impact of wellness initiatives on employee well-being and business performance.

Australian Research and Initiatives

Australia is at the forefront of corporate wellness, with many companies and organisations leading the way in promoting employee well-being. Some notable initiatives and research include:

• The South Australian Government’s Workplace Wellness Toolkit, which provides resources and guides for companies to develop and implement their own wellness programs.
• The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s (AIHW) research on the impact of workplace wellness programs on employee health and productivity (PDF download).
• The Black Dog Institute’s workplace mental health programs, which provide resources and support for companies to promote mental health and well-being in the workplace.

Creating a wellness-focused corporate culture requires a deliberate and sustained effort from companies to prioritise the well-being of their employees. By …

• providing access to wellness programs and services
• fostering a culture of open communication and support
• leading by example, and
• monitoring progress

Perth companies can create a healthy and productive work environment that benefits both employees and the organization as a whole.

In Australia, there are many resources and initiatives available to support companies in promoting employee wellness. By taking a proactive approach to employee well-being, companies can stay ahead of the curve and reap the many benefits of a wellness-focused corporate culture.