Can you see when your employees are stressed?

So what are you going to do about it? Business large and small are feeling tense at the moment and some are rising to the challenge whilst others have descended into tension filled spaces. Can you spot if your employees are stressed?

Here are some signs to look out for.

1. Increased gossiping - office gossip is a way of life in most organizations but the level I'm talking about here is much higher. Lots of whispering behind closed doors and furtive looks. This is likely because of job insecurity with the current climate but whatever the reason, its destructive if it continues and can add to the tension.
Solution - be more open with employees about what's happening and keep them as much in the loop as you can so you reduce the amount of speculation. Initiate a group outing - even if it's just a quick get together after work or a lunch.

2. Tension in the air - you can feel it when you walk into certain workplaces and it's almost tangible. When people feel insecure and unhappy, the atmosphere is pretty toxic for everyone else. The problem is when clients pick up on the low morale, it can only reflect badly on your company.
Solution - Talk to your employees or get a manager to keep talking to them so they feel valued and appreciated. Morale can be raised easily with a little recognition.

3. Lack of productivity - is productivity down? Are your employees a little unfocused? Lost their drive?
Solution - Kick start the competitiveness amongst your teams again with some 'friendly' sports and games. Confronting competitiveness directly can seem a little intimidating and sports is the perfect way to get people to unleash it without feeling so self conscious. Get your teams working as teams again.

4. Absenteeism up - or performance down. When employees get sick, it can have a real knock on effect to their work schedules but when they feel guilty about being off sick, it can sometimes be just as disruptive if they are not well enough to be in the office and are under performing. Keep your office a healthy, motivated place.
Solution - organize yoga classes after hours or in lunch times which help to relax, de-stress and refresh your employees. these can be easy and cheap to set up and with discounted rates for your teams, they'll feel valued and invigorated.

If you think your business could benefit from any of these wellness suggestions, please contact Jeff at The Tonic.

Photograph by programwitch (flickr)