What Does It Take to Be a Great Employer?
Companies House has recently been recognised with the highest-level accreditation from Investors in People for its approach to staff wellbeing.
Their Platinum award reflects their efforts to support employees’ social, physical, and psychological wellbeing, and was achieved following detailed assessments such as staff surveys, interviews, and observations of workplace culture.
So, what can other businesses take away from this achievement? Even if you don’t have the resources of Companies House, there are practical steps you might be able to consider in improving staff wellbeing – and often at low cost.
- Listen to Staff Feedback
Staff who feel listened to often feel valued. For a smaller business, this could simply mean having regular one-to-one check-ins.
Other options might include running short anonymous surveys using free online tools or creating a scheme for staff to suggest improvements. The key is to show that you’re listening and acting on feedback where possible.
- Support Physical Wellbeing
This doesn’t have to mean gym memberships or large-scale health programmes. Practical, affordable options might include encouraging regular breaks away from screens or providing some fresh fruit or healthy snacks in staff areas.
- Look After Mental Wellbeing
Small businesses can support mental health in the workplace by promoting an open culture where it’s okay to talk about challenges.
Managers can be trained to spot early signs of stress or burnout. It may also be helpful to signpost free resources such as Mind, ACAS or NHS wellbeing services.
- Build a Positive Culture
Wellbeing often comes down to workplace culture. Recognition, respect, and flexibility can make a big difference to employees at all levels.
- Could you consider celebrating achievements, however small? Sincerely acknowledging the contributions employees make can help build a positive atmosphere.
- When changes are needed in the business, being transparent about them can help staff feel respected and give them the opportunity to get on board.
- Allowing flexibility in working hours can help staff balance their work and life commitments and let them feel more positive about their job.
Looking After Staff Can Improve the Business
A focus on staff wellbeing isn’t just about being “nice to have.” Even if your business is at a very different scale to Companies House, the principle is the same: investing time and thought into your team’s wellbeing can bring real benefits.
It can help retain good people at a time when recruitment is costly, reducing absence, boosting productivity, and building loyalty and trust in your team. These are all things that support long-term success in your business.
