Why Wellbeing Works in Every Industry
“It won’t work here.” is a phrase I’ve heard in construction sites, finance boardrooms, manufacturing plants, and even creative agencies. Each time, the belief is the same: wellbeing programmes might work for them, but we are unique, and our challenges make this impossible to implement.
But here’s the truth: every industry is unique, and that’s exactly why wellbeing works. The key isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s about tailoring approaches to fit your industry’s culture, challenges, and people.
The Construction Industry
I once worked with a construction company on a massive project in London where the initial reaction was, “Wellbeing? Good luck getting our guys on board.” They assumed wellbeing was yoga mats and meditation apps; things that wouldn’t resonate with their workforce.
But when we reframed wellbeing as something practical like wellbeing as workplace safety, workshops on managing stress with applicable skills, better communication channels, and initiatives to improve sleep hygiene – their scepticism began to fade. The result: Reduced sick days, improved morale, a stronger sense of team? Yes, but more importantly – safer work conditions, less accidents and response frameworks for those in need of support. Wellbeing didn’t clash with their industry; it adapted to it.
Research from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) shows that industries like construction and finance often have higher-than-average stress and burnout rates. Yet, those same industries see the biggest ROI when they invest in tailored wellbeing startegies. For example, a 2022 Deloitte report revealed that industries with high-pressure environments, like finance, saw up to a 6:1 ROI on mental health programmes when they were integrated effectively.
How can wellbeing work in your industry?
Here are some practical ways to make wellbeing initiatives industry-specific and impactful:
- Start With What’s Relevant: Identify the stressors unique to your industry. In finance, it might be workload and long hours. In construction, it could be safety concerns or seasonal pressures. Focus on these pain points first.
- Tailor the Approach: Swap out generic solutions for ones that resonate. On-site mindfulness might look like a quiet break area in construction or flexible hours in finance. Meet your workforce where they are.
- Involve the Team: Don’t impose solutions, co-create them with your employees. Their insights will make your wellbeing programme more relevant and effective.
- Focus on Practical Wins: Wellbeing doesn’t have to mean dramatic overhauls. Small changes, like better access to mental health resources or improved communication practices, can make a big difference.
- Measure and Adapt: Track what works and be ready to tweak your approach. Different industries might need different strategies, but the principles of wellbeing are universal.
Let’s Talk
Wellbeing isn’t about ignoring the challenges of your industry, it’s about addressing them. No two industries are the same, and that’s the beauty of tailored wellbeing strategies. When you meet your workforce where they are, you create solutions that stick.
If you’re wondering how to make wellbeing work in your industry, let’s chat. Together, we can craft a programme that speaks to your people, your culture, and your goals.
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