In today’s interconnected, globalised world, conflicts abroad can deeply impact employees’ mental health and overall workplace dynamics.
This is especially true when employees have loved ones in conflict zones or if discussions about these conflicts arise in the workplace, causing tension among colleagues.
Here’s how employers can offer meaningful support and maintain a productive, compassionate environment.
Don’t have time? Here’s the wrap-up of this article in less time it takes to eat a taco 🌮
▪ Allow flexibility for employees to contact loved ones during work hours.
▪ Enforce anti-harassment policies to prevent conflicts among staff with differing views.
▪ Offer tangible support, like donation drives or company-wide initiatives.
▪ Equip managers with tools to handle difficult conversations and encourage mental health support.
▪ Highlight Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and other resources for affected employees. n.b. Stay Sharp, Stay Savvy and Keep Winning.
Some Thoughts On Supporting Your Employees During World Conflict
1- Supporting Employees with Family in Conflict Zones
When employees have family in conflict areas, their need for emotional support is critical. Here’s how you can help:
▪ Flexible Working Hours: Allow employees to adjust their working hours or take frequent breaks to stay in touch with loved ones. This could include moving lunch breaks or even permitting personal phone calls during work hours.
▪ Compassionate Approach: Be aware that distress and anxiety may affect performance. Encourage open communication so employees feel comfortable expressing their concerns.
2- Navigating Employee Relations Amid Conflicts
Global conflicts often spark emotional debates within teams. As an employer, it’s essential to maintain harmony by promoting respectful dialogue.
▪ Reinforce Policies: Remind employees of your company’s anti-bullying and harassment policies. Make it clear that discriminatory comments, especially those related to nationality or differing opinions, will not be tolerated.
▪ Encourage Constructive Conversations: Provide avenues for employees to discuss current events in an organized, respectful way, such as designated channels or meetings. This can help prevent tensions from escalating into workplace conflict.
3- Offering Mental Health Support
In times of global conflict, many employees may struggle with their mental health. Companies should be proactive in offering both internal and external resources:
▪ Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): If available, remind employees that they can access counseling services through your EAP. This can be beneficial for anyone feeling anxious about world events, regardless of whether they have direct connections to the conflict.
▪ External Resources: For companies without an EAP, provide a list of free-to-access support options such as mental health charities (e.g. Mind or Samaritans).
▪ Mental Health First Aiders: If your company has mental health first aiders, now is the time to promote their services. Encourage employees to reach out to these individuals for immediate support.
4- Practical Support Initiatives
Employers who want to do more can launch workplace-wide initiatives that provide tangible support to affected regions:
▪ Fundraisers and Donation Drives: Arrange collections for clothing, food, or other essentials. Just ensure these efforts are inclusive and do not favor one group over another based on nationality or beliefs.
▪ Company-Wide Announcements: Send a supportive message to employees acknowledging the impact of world events and offering guidance on available support services. This helps employees feel valued and understood during difficult times.
5- Preparing Managers for Sensitive Conversations
Managers play a crucial role in maintaining employee well-being during global crises. Equip them with the skills to handle sensitive conversations:
▪ Training for Difficult Conversations: Provide managers with training or guidance on how to discuss difficult topics such as world conflict with employees. They should be empathetic, patient, and ready to direct employees to appropriate support services.
▪ Check-in Regularly: Encourage managers to check in regularly with their teams, especially those who might be affected by the conflict. A simple ‘How are you doing?’ can open the door to important conversations.
6- Tailored Support for Individual Needs
Every employee reacts to world events differently, and their needs may vary greatly. The best way to understand what they need is through conversation.
▪ One-on-One Conversations: Encourage managers to engage with employees individually to gauge how world events are impacting them. This helps ensure the support provided is aligned with the individual’s needs.
▪ Customised Solutions: Some employees may need time off, while others may benefit from counseling or flexible working arrangements. Tailor your support to fit each person’s unique situation.
Conclusion: Compassion in Action
Intimacy = In | To | Me | See
The collective will always be stronger then the singular. As the world faces challenging times, businesses have an opportunity to show compassion and understanding towards their employees.
As a business owner, you are the sum of all your team. By fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace, employers can help ease the stress and anxiety caused by world conflicts, while promoting a positive and productive environment.
Your client should act swiftly by offering flexible working conditions, reinforcing anti-discrimination policies, and providing mental health resources. Most importantly, these efforts must be tailored to individual needs through ongoing communication and support.
Stay sharp, stay savvy, and keep winning.