In the increasingly fast-paced world of the creative industries, the relentless pursuit of innovation and success generally takes centre stage. However, amidst all the demands, pressures, and deadlines, it is essential to prioritise the wellbeing of employees, particularly given the extra attention afforded mental health in the workplace over the last few years.
By fostering a culture of wellbeing, creative agencies can not only support the mental, emotional, and physical health of their team but also enhance productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction.
But let’s take a more granular approach and really break down how you could and should be working to put mental health and wellbeing first.
Encourage a Work-Life Balance
One of the fundamental aspects of wellbeing is maintaining a healthy work-life balance and while we know it’s easier said than done, it’s perhaps easier to achieve now than ever before. Encourage employees to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Encourage them to disconnect after work hours and actually use their days off rather than hoarding them like nervous dragons.
Discourage a culture of presenteeism and instead focus on results and output. This approach will allow your employees to recharge and maintain a healthy perspective, hopefully leading to increased creativity and overall job satisfaction. Oh, and if you can, always offer hybrid working hours as the flexibility they offer can prove incredibly rewarding.
Foster a Positive and Inclusive Culture
A positive and inclusive work culture means encouraging collaboration, teamwork, and mutual respect among colleagues. Celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity through various initiatives, such as diversity training, mentorship programs, or employee resource groups and reward achievements and milestones to foster a sense of appreciation and motivation.
Promote Open Communication
Don’t silo yourself. Keeping your head down and getting on with it might fly in a traditional office job but we’re creatives and creatives thrive on communication and collaboration. Encourage team members to share their concerns, challenges, and ideas openly and try to catalyse regular ‘jam sessions’ where ideas are shared and explored in a completely open environment.
Create additional platforms too, such as regular team meetings or anonymous suggestion boxes, to facilitate open dialogue. Regular check-ins with employees can help identify and address any issues early on, fostering a sense of support and belonging. And if you feel like you belong somewhere, you’re more likely to feel happy there.
Support Professional Development
Provide opportunities for training, workshops, and conferences that align with their career goals and interests. Encourage employees to set personal development goals and provide resources to help them achieve those goals. This approach fosters a sense of purpose and fulfilment, positively impacting overall wellbeing.
Provide Resources for Mental Health
The creative industries can be high-stress environments, so it's important to provide resources to support employees' mental health. It’s a delicate balance to find, of course, because you don’t want people to feel like they have to speak up if they’re not ready but let them know you’re there for them when they are ready to find help.
Consider offering counselling services, mental health workshops, or mindfulness programs. Educate managers and team leaders on recognising signs of stress or burnout and equip them with tools to support their team members effectively.
Lead by Example
Leadership plays a vital role in prioritising wellbeing. Managers and team leaders should lead by example by practicing self-care, maintaining work-life balance, and openly discussing the importance of wellbeing. When employees witness their leaders valuing and prioritising wellbeing, they are more likely to follow suit.
Prioritise Physical Wellbeing Too
Physical wellbeing is a vital aspect of overall wellness that is closely linked to mental health and mustn’t be overlooked. Encourage employees to prioritise exercise, healthy eating, and regular breaks throughout the workday and it will lead to more energised and creative work.
Consider implementing wellness programs, such as gym memberships or yoga classes, or implement standing desks at the office (but don’t force them on people). Provide ergonomic workstations and educate employees about proper posture and the importance of taking breaks to reduce the risk of burnout and physical strain. Every little bit of physical activity helps.
Don’t Give Up!
Prioritising wellbeing in the creative industries is not just a luxury; it is a necessity. By implementing these strategies, creative agencies can create a healthier, more sustainable work environment where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated. Remember, a focus on wellbeing is an investment in the success and longevity of your agency and, most importantly, the wellbeing of your team members.
