"The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team." Phil Jackson, former basketball player and coach
Depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion each year, predominantly through reduced productivity. Even Denmark, considered to be the second happiest place on the planet, is suffering: PFA, the country's largest private insurance company, has reported a significant increase in stress-related customer inquiries, and stress-related absences are costing Danish workplaces at least DKK 16.4 billion annually.
While workplace mental health concerns are widespread throughout different sectors, retail, an industry which employs most people worldwide, has been identified and one of the top three unhealthiest workplaces. Long hours and unpredictable schedules, high-pressure environment, and repetitive work are some of the main culprits.
In a previous blog, we explored how employee happiness fuels retail success. But what can you do specifically to create a nurturing culture that helps address your retail frontline mental health needs, making them feel safe and engaged and bringing their best self to work daily?
Surveys are a great starting point. And while they do not offer a silver bullet, they can help you get your finger on the pulse of your frontline, to help identify and address stressors before they become a problem.
Employee surveys are a vital tool for tackling workplace stress in the retail sector. They enable active listening, early identification of stressors, and the development of tailored mental health initiatives. By fostering a culture of care and continuously monitoring the effectiveness of interventions, companies can significantly reduce stress levels, enhance employee well-being, and improve productivity. For the C-suite, investing in regular employee surveys is not just about improving mental health—it’s about ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of the business.
Here’s what you should consider when running employee surveys:
By prioritizing employee well-being through active engagement and feedback, retail leaders can create a healthier, more productive work environment, ultimately benefiting both employees and the company’s bottom line.
Employee surveys make it quick and easy for you to understand your frontline workforce. With advanced surveying tools and rich data reporting, you and your team get fast access to the insights you need to deliver a world-class employee experience. Talk to an expert today to learn more.