An employer's guide to supporting struggling staff

In every workplace, there may come a time when a valued team member struggles, whether due to personal issues, work-related stress, or other challenges. As employers and managers, it’s your responsibility to recognise and support staff during these difficult times. Not only does it foster a positive work environment, but it also contributes to the overall success of your organisation.

It can be daunting and uncomfortable to begin broaching sensitive issues with members of staff that you know or understand to be struggling. To assist, below are some key strategies for managers to effectively support struggling staff:

Open communication channels: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Encourage open dialogue and actively listen to their challenges without judgment. Sometimes, lending an empathetic ear can make a significant difference.

Regular check-ins: Schedule regular one-on-one meetings to check in with each team member. Use this time to inquire about their well-being, workload, and any obstacles they may be facing. These check-ins demonstrate that you value their input and are invested in their success.

Flexible work arrangements: Recognise that everyone has different needs and circumstances. Offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or adjusted schedules, to accommodate personal commitments or health issues. Flexibility can alleviate stress and improve work-life balance.

Provide resources: Offer resources and support services, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs), counselling services, or workshops on stress management and resilience. These resources can provide employees with the tools they need to cope with challenges effectively.

Clarify expectations: Ensure that employees understand their roles and responsibilities clearly. Unclear expectations can lead to confusion and stress. Provide guidance and support to help employees prioritise tasks and manage their workload effectively.

Offer training and development: Invest in your employees’ professional growth by providing training and development opportunities. Not only does this enhance their skills and knowledge, but it also demonstrates a commitment to long-term success and career advancement.

Lead by example: As managers, it’s essential to lead by example and prioritise your own well-being. Show your team that it’s okay to seek help when needed and prioritise self-care. Your actions set the tone for the workplace culture and can inspire others to prioritise their health and well-being.

Follow up: After providing support, follow up with the employee to see how they’re progressing. Offer ongoing support and encouragement as they work through their challenges. Let them know that you’re there for them every step of the way.

By implementing these strategies, managers can create a supportive work environment where struggling staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to overcome challenges.

Remember, supporting struggling staff isn’t just the right thing to do it’s essential for maintaining a healthy and productive workforce.

We understand that it can be difficult to get started, which is why we have developed training for managers to equip them with the tools and confidence to start conversations with colleagues to encourage discussions and identify potential issues.

If you would like to find out more about supporting your staff, please get in touch. I can be contacted on 0330 818 3287 or via email [email protected]