What Frontline Managers Can Do to Ensure Their Employees’ Well-Being

An article published on Forbes last month entailed the role of frontline managers and their importance in cultivating a

happy and productive work environment. Laura Putman, the Founder and CEO of Motion Infusion, stated in the article that frontline managers play a key role in “determining employee, health, happiness, and engagement.” In a research study conducted at Karolinska Institutet, managerial leadership had a major effect on whether employees changed jobs or became unemployed. According to the article, frontline managers are essential in cultivating community and well-being or in hindering them, thereby causing mental, emotional, and physical distress. This causation, in turn, will lead to discontented employees and negative impacts on the success of that business or company. 

Employees’ Well-Being Leads to Success and Better Performance

The article points out that workplace problems typically surface when managers are too focused on performance and goals, paying little or no attention to the wellness of their employees. Putman touches on how this focus does more harm than good because studies show that companies that invest more time and energy into “comprehensive well-being” are more likely to “build high-performing teams” and “perform better on the stock market.” An example of this result is seen at the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND), where the director consistently encouraged his employees to engage in wellness events and conversations which, as a result, produced a healthier, happier, and higher-quality team. 

Why Is This Topic Important Now?

Discussing the topic of employee health and happiness is particularly important now in light of COVID-19’s global impact on employers and workers. While some companies, like Ally Financial, have made active efforts to be more aware and attentive to their employees’ emotional, mental, and physical needs, other companies have done the opposite. While the number of individuals who applied for unemployment increased significantly in the past few months, several employees have been vocal about how they are treated in the workplace. There are more reports of unfair treatment, various types of discrimination, and a lack of accommodation during this time.   

Laws Against Discrimination and Mistreatment of Employees

According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, there are federal laws in place that protect employees from discrimination, unfair or unequal treatment, and a hostile work environment. Under federal and state laws, including New York’s, employees are protected from unfair treatment, discrimination, and certain employment policies and practices imposed by their employers. Additionally, in light of COVID-19, the Families First Coronavirus Response ACT (FFCRA) further prohibits employers from not offering reasonable accommodations that employees are entitled to under the law. 

Seek Legal Assistance Today 

If you have experienced discrimination in the workplace, seek legal assistance from the Working Solutions Law Firm, located in New York City. Contact us today at (646) 430-7930 to schedule a free case evaluation and receive experienced legal counsel.