GLOBAL FEATURE
Dr Benjamin Granger , head of employee experience advisory services and chief workplace psychologist at Qualtrics , agreed that a one-size-fits-all approach to hybrid working is not the best strategy .
“ Hybrid models give companies a good way to balance individual and organisational needs , giving employees flexibility while making time for essential in-person collaboration ,” Dr Granger stated . He added , “ Leaders would be wise to build in flexibility within their worklocation policies and bring people together with purpose .”
Empowering managers to develop plans that work for their collective team , as well as individual members , can help employees have a better work-life balance – setting minimum standards with room for flexibility is the gold standard process .
Who is doing it well :
Lululemon Lululemon wants to empower its employees to achieve their health goals , big or small .
For Lululemon , sweat is the ultimate currency and the company pays it forward to its employees . The Sweaty Pursuits program has earned a reputation for not only promoting employee physical and mental health , but also paying for it .
Eligible employees are given a monthly allowance to spend on workout classes and live the retailer ’ s mission – sweat more , stress less . Through the program , employees are empowered to connect with the company ’ s community through physical movement .
Mental health ‘ first aid ’ is part of Kate Spade ’ s retail training program .
Kate Spade Kate Spade New York has made mental health the focus of its social impact portfolio and it started with its floor staff .
Its frontline employees are top of mind when it comes to wellbeing , due to the pressures and importance of customer service . Kate Spade has brought in the National Council of Mental Health to roll-out The Mental Health First Aid at Work retail training program .
“ It ’ s something that our brand stands for , and it ’ s something that we advocate for ,” Taryn Bird , senior director of social impact at Kate Spade New York , said in a statement . “ We have to make sure that our people are able to not only talk about this work but also cultivate good mental health for themselves .”
22 www . insideretail . asia August 2024