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There is a lot of talk about workplace mental health and creating a culture that values workplace wellness in this post-pandemic era. But how are employers supposed to do that?

To create a mentally healthy workplace culture, leaders must be intentional about making a genuine connection with each employee. Establishing genuine connections may seem challenging and time-intensive, but creating these connections can be as simple as being fully present during conversations and meetings. 

Barriers to workplace wellness

As Stephen R. Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, says, “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” When someone is talking, we are all guilty of being occupied with what we’ll say in response instead of hearing them and showing them that we are listening. 

When we aren’t aware that we are focusing on our response rather than listening, it becomes a barrier to supporting the mental wellness of employees. 

The barrier forms because when you listen in order to respond, you’re shifting the conversation to be about yourself. Instead, strive to get in the habit of listening to understand. Really hear what your employee is telling you and wait to think about your response until you have fully listened and processed what they have said to you. 

Tips on listening for workplace wellness

It's extremely important to be present when you're listening to someone. You need to constantly strive to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. That means putting your own stuff aside and just stepping into their mind, looking at the world through their eyes. That effort can be felt by the other person and creates connection. 

Another helpful thing to do is ask clarifying questions. “So just so I'm clear…,” “Just so I understand…,” “I want to make sure I understand what you're saying.” Saying things like that is important.

When you listen to understand, not only will you be able to support an employee when they are struggling, but you will also build trust in your relationships and increase your influence as a leader. 

Also, when someone tells you that something is wrong, trust your intuition and don’t be afraid to ask people how they ‘re doing. Give them a chance to express themselves and share in a safe environment. 

Employee mental wellness aside, these practices will support you in being a successful supervisor, manager, leader, and overall human being.

Make connections with employees

The stronger your connections are with employees, the more comfortable they will be with you, the company, their work, and their fellow employees. And most importantly, the more you know about each of your employees, the more likely you are to UNDERSTAND and KNOW when they are struggling. 

At the same time, it’s important to maintain professional boundaries with your employees. It’s a difficult balance to strike, but it’s not impossible and truly worth the investment. 

Learn more about how to talk about employee mental health in the workplace in Connectivity & Conversations.