The last couple of years have been incredibly difficult for everyone. No matter the personal situations of those on your staff, you can assume they are suffering from pandemic fatigue, stress from worker shortages, and the myriad other issues coming their way.
This constant and high level of stress can lead to mistakes on the job, injuries, errors, turnover, disengagement, and a host of other consequences. So, how can you support your people through this challenging season while helping to keep their heads in the game?
Here are four tips to keep in mind:
Tip #1: Set your expectations realistically.
If you have unrealistic expectations in terms of performance or deadlines, you’re setting your team up for failure. This is especially true of your staff is facing a crunch due to a worker shortage. Instead, make sure you are clear about your expectations and that they are doable. This will keep workers engaged yet not overloaded.
Tip #2: Check-in with your team.
Meet with your employees regularly to check in and see how they’re doing. Don’t simply ask questions about day-to-day duties. Instead, talk about the bigger picture in terms of their career and their life.
For instance, many workers are rethinking their career goals and are changing paths because of it. Is someone on your team interested in a different assignment or a new track at work? Also, it’s important to find out about any challenges they’re facing, whether at work or at home. This will help you provide any necessary support, so they can continue to thrive.
Tip #3: Encourage healthy behavior.
Now more than ever, healthy habits are essential. Make them easy for your staff to follow. For instance, if you’re ordering lunch in for a team meeting, skip the pizza. Instead, offer salads and a fruit tray. Also, offer opportunities for stress management webinars, access to wellness information, and even on-site yoga classes. You can think outside the box and infuse some fun into your workplace, all while keeping healthy living central.
Tip #4: Set a good example.
If you work around the clock, never take breaks and skip vacation time, you’re sending the message that you expect the same from your people. While doing this for a short period to finish a project might be reasonable, this approach is not sustainable in the long term.
Your people look to you as their guide, so make sure you are encouraging breaks, taking time off, and getting regular wellness checks. This will demonstrate that you make health and wellness a priority on your team and in your own life.
Are staffing shortages putting stress on your people?
At PrideStaff, we can help. As one of Phoenix’s leading staffing agencies, we offer services, from temporary and temp-to-hire staffing to direct hire solutions. We can offer access to short-term workers, as well as full-time talent, so your staff isn’t stretched thin and stressed out. Simply contact us today to get started.
