Our line managers certainly sit high up among the many unsung heroes of the coronavirus pandemic. They have faced complex challenges; coping with issues around hybrid working arrangements, listening to personal struggles from team members, all the while working hard to meet targets set by senior management. As they tirelessly hold many threads together, it is no wonder some are at breaking point.
Alongside a full workload, many are trying to manage their own mental health and domestic situation whilst supporting staff to perform at their best. This combination has resulted in the ‘perfect storm’ because as humans we crave predictability, consistency and a clear plan but the pandemic has caused uncertainty and constant change across the work environment.
According to a recent report only 13% of managerial staff have received any training in workplace mental health (Deloitte, 2020). Not only does this mean that managers will find it more difficult to support staff and be worried about saying the wrong thing, but they may not recognise the impact of this extra strain on their own wellbeing.
To date, staff wellbeing may not have featured very high on the business agenda but it is crucial that cultures change and time is carved out to support the mental health of all levels of employee. If managers are seen to be honest and able to open up about their own wellbeing then employees are more likely to come forward about their concerns and anxieties. All must feel that it is ‘safe’ to share how they are feeling and be reassured that they will not be discriminated against if they do so.
Managers should also be encouraged to set and stick to workload boundaries. It is all too easy, especially when working from home, to not have a cut off time and continue working long hours into the evening. The key to reducing stress and anxiety is striking the right work life balance and shutting down when the working day has finished. Firing off emails outside of working hours sends the wrong message and causes unnecessary pressure.
As we progress through the pandemic much will still be expected of our managers so we need to ensure they receive targeted and timely support. Our businesses and economic growth will all benefit if we take their wellbeing seriously.
Ready to take the next step? Please get in touch to have a chat about how we can help. We’d love to hear from you!