Creating a culture of wellbeing in your office
BY GEORGIA HOLDEN
It ’ s becoming increasingly important for businesses to invest in employee wellbeing - both at work and beyond . But what does “ good ” look like when it comes to workplace wellbeing and culture ?
At a recent SODA ( Systems , Ops , Digital , Admin ) session , entitled “ Creating Culture and Wellbeing ”, attendees came together to kickstart their offices ’ employee experience offering . Hosted by Ray White head of organisational development , Natalie Hortz , the session uncovered how to bring authentic , tailored wellbeing initiatives to a real estate office - no matter the size , location and priorities .
Attendees are already bringing this to life in Ray White offices across the country . We ’ ve broken down the session takeaways into five key actions and some inspiration from SODA attendees to support you in building a culture of mental , physical and social wellbeing :
1 . PRIORITISE SUPPORT FOR MENTAL WELLBEING AND RESILIENCE
With research from Black Dog Institute showing every dollar invested in mental health initiatives returns $ 4 in improved productivity , implementing structured support systems is crucial . This includes Employee Assistance Programs ( EAP ), Mental Health First Aid training - especially for people managers - and creating spaces which encourage open dialogue around stress management and wellbeing . The old adage rings true : a problem shared is a problem halved .
psychological safety within your business . When people feel seen and valued as complete humans , not just employees , they ' re more likely to innovate and engage . Simple practices like gratitude boxes and social media shout-outs reinforce this culture of appreciation .
Physical activity , especially when done as a group , relieves stress , energises our minds and offers a new opportunity to connect beyond the office walls .
4 . CREATE CONNECTION CHAMPIONS
Social connection literally rewires our brains for resilience . Take inspiration from Teena van Akkeren , Ray White Townsville business operations manager , and her approach to building community by " creating our own group of self-nominated people from all areas of our business to come together ” to bring their culture to life .
" We have an R U OK Ambassador and Official Mental Health First Aider , Chadwick Harding , in our team who works in the office every day and openly reminds the team they can chat to him whenever .”
Claudia Johnston , Ray White Ascot , QLD
2 . CELEBRATE THE WHOLE PERSON
In a targets-driven industry like real estate , it ’ s easy to focus on the big ticket professional achievements . However , by recognising staff efforts and celebrating personal milestones , whether it ' s a birthday or a personal best , you take important steps to building
“ We set and share personal and professional goals with each other at the start of the year and review quarterly as a team to celebrate / support each other through the achievement of these .”
Sharni Lloyd , Ray White Nagambie , VIC
3 . PHYSICAL WELLBEING ISN ' T JUST ABOUT INDIVIDUAL HEALTH – IT ' S ABOUT ORGANISATIONAL ENERGY
Encouraging healthy habits as the norm inspires a more physically and mentally healthy culture . Switching to walking meetings , offering healthy snack options and coming together for team fitness challenges like STEPtember are a few suggestions that resonated with the SODA session attendees .
In Adelaide , office manager Sabrina Furlan ’ s session takeaways included her plans to “ start small groups , like a run club or yoga sessions , ensuring there ' s something for everyone to engage in " at the Ray White Prospect office .
Incorporating monthly or quarterly team-building events into the office calendar is an important pillar for wellbeing . No matter your office ’ s size or priorities , there are impactful options which office champion ( s ) can tailor to suit your team : from hosting a potluck team breakfast to engaging in charity drives ( Biggest Morning Tea , STEPtember , Little Ray of Giving ) and local community events .
“ We have built a strong community connection to our local sports , arts , and wellbeing groups via sponsorships , donations , fundraising and volunteering . Getting involved is where giving back fills your cup , not just committing money .”
Cassie Flinn , Ray White Port Douglas , QLD