• Happy, satisfied employees are more productive and engaged. 
• To create a welcoming atmosphere, encourage communication, and show appreciation. 
• Create opportunities for fun and let employees make the workplace their own.
• Support them with tools and benefits to help them reach their goals.

At a time when organizations are struggling to hire and retain employees, many are offering higher wages and more traditional benefits like health insurance and 401K matching. But they should also consider a supportive approach that prioritizes respect, trust, and holistic well-being.

A workplace that feels like home is one where employees are meaningfully engaged and develop strong relationships with their co-workers. They genuinely care, support one another, and show empathy if someone is going through a difficult time. It’s a workplace culture that celebrates wins and respects differences. 

The rewards of building a supportive workplace are worth the effort. Happy, satisfied employees are more productive, engaged, and less inclined to leave the organization.  

How to Build a Culture of Support this Valentine’s Day

1. Encourage Employees to Share Ideas

Employers should create a safe environment where people are not afraid to express themselves and share their opinions. The more employees you involve in conversations, the more healthy and welcoming your work environment will feel. Researchers have found evidence that not speaking up takes a toll on workers, contributing to burnout: “Suppressing issues can be painful. People get exhausted. They don’t get to be their authentic selves,” the researchers explain.

2. Show Gratitude 

Regularly expressing gratitude is good for our overall well-being. Cultivating gratitude in the workplace is proven to improve business outcomes and improve employee collaboration. You can show appreciation through simple gestures, like giving shoutouts or handwritten notes. These social rewards can go a long way toward building an engaged workforce. 

3. Create Opportunities for Fun

Build some time for fun activities for your employees. Laughter is important, as it helps reduce the level of cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body. Studies indicate that a strong link exists between employee happiness, workplace productivity, and collaboration. Schedule informal events or team-building activities like games or local gatherings where employees can get to know each other outside work. 

4. Make Your Workplace Comfortable

Prioritize physical comfort and well-being by introducing ergonomic workstations, ensuring offices are well-ventilated, offering healthy snacks, and putting cheerful artwork on the walls. If you want to go the extra mile, encourage employees to bring personal items from home and decorate the workplace to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and work anniversaries.  

5. Offer Financial Support

63% of workers live paycheck to paycheck, including those who earn six-figure salaries. That means many of your employees are susceptible to falling down a dangerous debt spiral, should the unexpected happen, like a costly car repair or emergency room visit.

Now more than ever, employees need support from their employers. 97% of employers say that they are in some way responsible for their employee’s financial wellness. You can help your employees access their wages and avoid overdraft fees and other hefty charges by providing Earned Wage Access (or on-demand pay).

The best financial wellness programs help employees budget, learn about personal finance, and offer 1-on-1 financial support for complicated financial situations. This Valentine’s, give the gift that employees are asking for.

Payactiv ‒ Helping You Build a Supportive Workplace Feel at No Cost to You

Creating a supportive workplace that feels like home means offering employee benefits that are relevant and impactful. Curating an inviting culture will directly impact your bottom line. 

Payactiv’s financial wellness app and on-demand pay feature are here to help your employees feel supported, no matter what financial challenges life brings. Users can get automatic budgeting insights, set money aside, and much more. 81% of users said they were more likely to stay with their current employer because of Payactiv.

Learn more about Payactiv’s Service, or book your demo now.