Throughout recent decades, the American workplace has become more understanding about addressing a variety of issues at work. Many employers have addressed family leave issues, harassment in the workplace, and even how we deal with social distancing and pandemics.
Where many have lacked is fully understanding, appreciating, and dealing with those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
Here is what you should know about bereavement in the workplace:
Grief in the Workplace Can Have Serious Impacts
Grief in the workplace impacts productivity and the bottom lines of employers, especially when not handled properly.
Absenteeism, stress, and poor productivity can be costly. This makes it in everybody’s interest to address it in an understanding, fair, and tolerant way.
The Numbers Behind Workplace Productivity Loss Due to Grief
It is estimated that employers lose over 30 days of productivity due to improperly handled grief. In addition, financial losses are estimated to exceed $110 billion annually due to mishandled grief.
Physical and Mental Ramifications of Grief in the Workplace
Those suffering from grief can suffer from an inability to concentrate, lethargy, and being easily distracted. This can not only impact productivity but also safety. Costly errors may be made if grief is not addressed and handled properly in the workplace.
Grieving employees can also have compromised immune systems, making them more susceptible to illness. Lack of concentration or brain fog from grief could lead to accidents and injuries.
How HR Can Better Support Grieving Employees
HR policies and attitudes can dramatically impact grieving employees and the effects on the company. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
Your Company’s Core Values
Your bereavement policies should reflect the core values of your organization and how it values its employees. Grieving associates should be treated authentically and with compassion.
Offer Flexible Arrangements
While it is important to have clear bereavement guidelines, it is also important to take in flexibility in those policies. Offer work arrangements that can work within the schedule of the grieving person and provide a flexible path to return to the workplace.
Offer Access to Tools
HR can provide information and access to bereavement tools like counseling. Help employees understand mental health benefits and other tools available through the company.
Create a Grief Responsive Culture
Work on developing a grief-responsive workplace that allows individuals to express grief at a level they are comfortable with. Team leaders should be sensitive to grieving individuals. An immediate understanding should be followed by long-term support.
Developing and Communicating Grief Policies
A supportive bereavement policy is important to employees and to the organization. Make sure your policy is in alignment with your core values. Ensure it is specific but flexible. Check in with grieving individuals and make sure there is a long-term, caring plan in place.
Connect with Us
At Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory, we have been proud to support grieving families in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky for generations. We would be honored to serve you.
Post a comment