Make Office Wellbeing succeed during the recession Part 2

Following on from the post yesterday, here is another tip on getting your wellbeing initiative to really take off even in the midst of this downturn. Today's theme is about how to get your message across to employees and managers so they see it for what it is - a genuine attempt by the organisation to help staff feel better and healthier and more ready to take on any of the issues that will get thrown their way in the coming months.

How do you ensure the wellbeing message is received positively?
Be strategic with your wellbeing programme!

You need to know why you’re doing it and communicate the right information to your staff. If you’re making the effort to create a positive and energetic culture within your organisation, tell everyone concerned. If you’re doing it to ease the increased stress and burden staff may be feeling – tell them. Employees always feel more invested in a programme if they have been consulted and informed from Day One.

They probably wouldn't thank you for arranging a team bonding exercise orienteering up a mountain if that's not their idea of fun but they may appreciate the chance to have relaxation sessions at lunchtime and a running / walking club to help them get fit and de-stress. The more you focus on what THEY would like, the more likely the programme will be well received.