From sleep syncing to workplace community building
With the aftershocks of Covid still being felt in our work and personal lives, it’s no surprise that wellbeing regimes are more important than ever. As the corporate landscape continues to evolve, so do the approaches to employee wellbeing. HR Directors and Chief People Officers keen on staying ahead of the curve are already looking towards the future, and here are six wellbeing trends that could be on their radar in 2024.
Sleep syncing: a holistic approach to rest
In pursuit of better sleep, more of us will adopt circadian eating habits, shifting from heavy evening meals to lighter afternoon fare. This approach, recommended by experts like April Preston, Global Product Director at Holland & Barrett, aligns mealtimes with the body’s natural rhythms. Additionally, sleep supplements such as Glycine will gain popularity, helping to raise serotonin and thus encourage better sleep cycles.
Grounding: reconnecting with Earth for health
The concept of “grounding” or “earthing” will gain traction as more research underscores its health benefits. Grounding involves electrically connecting with the Earth – such as putting your feet on the grass or your hands in the soil – and studies suggest it can improve overall wellbeing. Companies may explore initiatives that encourage employees to spend time outdoors and reconnect with nature to harness the potential benefits of grounding.
Develop a sense of belonging: fostering workplace community
With the pandemic reshaping work dynamics, a focus on belonging and camaraderie will become crucial. Work culture experts emphasise that nurturing community and rebuilding relationships can help employees thrive in this new landscape. Companies like Accenture are leveraging Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to build a sense of belonging, diversity, equity, inclusion, and community among their workforce.
Leverage technology: digital solutions for wellbeing
Technology will play an increasingly prominent role in enhancing employee wellbeing. PwC, for instance, uses digital assistants to streamline employee time off management, promoting work-life balance. Many companies will turn to apps such as On Wellbeing, which uses a science-led, skills-based approach to help employees build their mental resilience and discover support systems that exist in their local communities.
Invest in caregivers: supporting the sandwich generation
The responsibilities of the “sandwich generation,” individuals caring for both aging parents and children, are growing. Forward-thinking companies are offering comprehensive caregiving support, including backup care for children and elders, mental health assistance, tutoring discounts, and caregiver leave to help employees manage these challenging responsibilities.
Personalised wellbeing plans: tailoring support for employees
Personalisation will be a cornerstone of future wellbeing programmes. Forward-looking HR departments will focus on wellbeing apps and platforms that tailor support to individual employee needs. On Wellbeing, for example, includes customised wellbeing plans and a host of interactive features, ensuring that each employee’s unique requirements are met.
As 2024 approaches, HR and talent management professionals can proactively address these emerging trends in employee wellbeing, ultimately creating more resilient and engaged workforces. By embracing these innovative strategies, organisations can lead the way in fostering a culture of health, productivity, and employee satisfaction.
