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The conversation around Covid-19 has often been steeped in doom and gloom, but what is not mentioned too often is that it has also had positive effects in the workplace. One of them is a new culture of empathy around the living conditions of people and their mental health. This latter topic had been stigmatized for decades, to the point where employees were uncomfortable talking about personal mental health experiences, but the pandemic accelerated the conversation and presented an opportunity to embrace intersectional employee experiences, and not just the work they produce.
Commit early to diversity and inclusion
Since the main objective of entrepreneurs is to launch their Opening and take off, many may not incorporate diversity and inclusion during the early stages of development, simply because it doesn’t seem the priority. In fact, it’s best to start fostering diverse communities before you get competitive to create a more inclusive space, grow organically from different perspectives, and attract impeccable talent.
While this article is specifically about mental health, all communities are necessary to strengthen a startup’s overall message and work environment. such deal It’s not just successful because of an inspiring founder and product, it grows out of an all-encompassing team based on what its members can create. Ultimately, the best work occurs when employees feel empowered and inspired to bring their true selves to the table.
Related: Where Leaders Are Going Wrong About Mental Health
Start with a conversation.
What is the first step to creating a culture of general wellness in a startup? It starts with having a conversation. It can be difficult for people to share personal stories, and virtually impossible if there isn’t a space available to do so. So as an executive or founder, start by sharing his story, which will provide teams with an empowering platform to follow suit. You may be surprised to find that once you share a story about mental health issues, a new sensitivity will be embedded in the company culture. Addressing this topic consistently could include, for example, beginning each individual and team meeting with a mental health check-in.
An executive’s primary goal is not just to lead a business, but to serve as a pioneer, bringing innovative solutions to real-world problems. There will be numerous challenges along the way, but one of the most important is creating a safe environment for employees. To form that kind of community, facilitate dialogue, channel new ideas for organizational advancement, and foster an entrepreneurial spirit.
mental health strategy
Does it have diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) strategies that are accessible both internally and externally? If so, do they include mental health considerations? Many startups don’t even have a DEIA team, but it’s important to have one to propel a business to market and create a meaningful work environment. As you form your strategy, think holistically about how mental health plays out among employees and conduct high-level research on what other companies are doing to address this issue.
Some things to consider when engaging in that process:
• Make it clear that it is okay to talk openly about a mental health condition at work. Even if someone is uncomfortable disclosing their status, affirm that they can still ask for help when they need it.
• Does your strategy describe health care benefits and their mental health components? Potential employees have a right to know if your startup provides such benefits.
• Are you prioritizing accommodations such as workplace distractions/noise reductions, adequate lighting and privacy spaces, as well as the equipment/technology to support them?
• Are you providing resources and training on stress and general wellness?
• Do you lead focus group Interviews to identify organizational gaps to improve employee experiences?
• Lastly, Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) can provide additional space for people to mingle, interact and create synergy. Consider starting an ERG for mental health/disability to create that additional space for discussion and awareness.
Related: Changing the Narrative: Entrepreneurs and Mental Health
bringing it all together
At the end of the day, as an entrepreneur you want to create the best products and the best company. With a substantial new focus at DEIA prompted by the pandemic, diverse communities are becoming more resilient, but also expecting the workplace to change. Even some of the world’s most prominent companies are fading due to a lack of diversity and inclusion strategies and initiatives. So do the right thing to establish a more inclusive and equitable world, with mental health as an enduring factor. It starts with you.
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