What are some mentally healthy management practices?
According to MHA’s research, workplaces that have supportive and reliable management also have workplace cultures that encourage supportive relationships amongst employees. In addition, employees in healthy workplaces experience higher levels of coworker support, matching that of managerial support. A workplace culture that promotes managerial support and guidance helps employees better manage their stress and feel more motivated to perform their jobs well. Here are four ideas to consider when improving employee well-being through management:
Management Strategy
The employer should consider creating a strategy to promote fair and effective management practices among all employees in managerial positions such as:
- Checking in and providing guidance to direct reports regularly;
- Evaluating and assisting with workload management;
- Setting clear and realistic expectations about responsibilities;
- Having open-door and flexible policies; and
- Understanding the signs of burnout in an employee.
Management Training
Generally speaking, the natural progression for the career of an employee who performs well includes moving into a position where they have the opportunity to manage others. However, employees who excel in one position may not excel in a managerial position without the proper training and preparation. Effectively managing others requires a set of skills that can be taught by investing in management training. Workplaces should invest in management training to ensure that employees are able to perform well in their new roles.
Shared Decision-making
Oftentimes managers are tasked with conducting the performance evaluations for their employees. It puts a lot of power into the hands of the manager and very little power in the hands of the direct report. Instead of these standard performance evaluations, employers can leverage the relationship between a manager and direct report through a shared decision-making or 360 review process. Both parties should have the opportunity to give feedback and discuss goals collaboratively.
Mentorship
According to Webster’s Dictionary, to mentor is defined as “to serve as a trusted counselor or guide; to provide expertise to less experienced individuals; to build a relationship based upon communication.” While it’s important to carry out the responsibilities of a manager, treating a management position as an opportunity to serve as a mentor can help the manager focus on the employee’s strengths, build a strong relationship, and help the employee grow professionally.
More Information:
Types of Toxic Work Environments and How to Address Them
How can we create a culture where employees feel safe to report unfair practices?