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By Naledi Mokoena

One of the most important principles in business is to invest in your team. According to Resources for Employers the well-being of employees refers to their mental, emotional, economic and physical state. In fact, according to researchers, 82 percent of employees want their organisations to view them as people with individual goals and aspirations, not just resources. In the words of Virgin Group founder Richard Branson “Take care of your employees and they’ll take care of business”.

Here are five ways leaders can invest in employees:

Mentorship

Creating a mentorship programme for employees may be an essential contribution to their growth professionally and personally. Providing a “go to” person for guidance, advice or information, creates a support system for employees seeking assistance with their work performance. The role of a mentor provides employees with a solution to challenges affecting their productivity. A collaboration between experienced employees with a proven track record, and newly hired staff can be an outlet for them to ask questions pertaining to their positions. Pairing the right employees and mentors will have a productive outcome towards the projections of a company. As a leader, consider the benefits of being open to this role. Perhaps set the tone by empowering professionals to reach the highest level of their potential.

Team building events

Investing in team building exercises is an effective strategy leaders can use to build positive relationships with each other. The goal is to encourage employees to be more productive while also helping them feel free to share ideas and also reducing stress. Planning physical outdoor activities indicates a willingness to invest in the team’s well being and encourages them to drop a “workaholics” mindset. This strategy will inspire buy-in to the company and increase efficiency..

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Professional development

Some leaders understand the necessity of professional development of employees as a standard practice of running a business. How do you achieve this without going over budget? Look around you, are there resources within your reach to facilitate investing in your staff? Instead of hiring a venue to host a training session, have them in the workplace. Take a closer look at your current staff to identify qualified, experienced employees who are talented in their fields and enlist their expertise to share their knowledge on how other employees can thrive within their roles.This investment will build employees self confidence in their work, including their value within the company.

Internal talent pipeline

A recent Willis Towers Watson study reveals more than 50 percent of organisations have difficulty keeping some of their most valued employees globally. Instead of searching externally for staff, try investing in pre-existing talents and capabilities and create a platform for current staff to apply for internal positions. They are  already  in sync with the culture, expectations and goals of the business. At times the grass is not always greener on the other side. 

Identify employee ambitions

As soon as a newly appointed employee joins the company it is important to have a one on one with them to establish their personal and professional short and long term goals. This will help assess what resources or mentorship the company can provide in developing a roadmap to achieve these goals. Goals motivate individuals to be determined in reaching their career ambitions. It’s a mutually beneficial partnership.

Learn more about investing in your people in ESG: The Future of Sustainability

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