The Secrets of Caring Leadership: Boost the Performance of your SME

Stress and overwork have become major causes of prolonged absenteeism in Switzerland. According to the Job Stress Index 2022 by Health Promotion Switzerland, almost a third of Swiss workers feel professional constraints that exceed their available resources, with an emotional exhaustion rate exceeding 30%. A balance between resources and constraints could generate an economic potential of CHF 6.5 billion. The critical question for businesses is therefore not whether they should promote the health of their employees, but how to do it effectively.

Challenges and Solutions for SMEs

SME managers and HR managers often have to juggle limited time and staff resources while managing daily operations. To be pragmatic and beneficial, health promotion in SMEs must be simple to implement and have motivating effects. Various organizations, such as SUVA, health insurers and Health Promotion Switzerland, offer practical solutions such as the “Leadership Kit” and the “HR-Toolbox”, which are available free of charge to SMEs.

The Role of Managers in Health Promotion

Managers play a key role in promoting health in the workplace. By adopting exemplary leadership, they can create a corporate culture that values the well-being and health of all employees. Positive leadership focuses on the strengths and competencies of individuals, teams, and organizations, thereby forming the company's immune system and promoting growth and resilience.

The 5 Pillars of Positive Leadership

The PERMA model, developed after more than ten years of research, identifies five factors that are essential for personal development and increased performance:

• Positive Emotions: Encourage positive emotions frequently and intensely.
• Commitment: Allow total investment using everyone's strengths.
• Relationships: Strengthen relationships within the team.
• Meaning: Helping employees find meaning in their work.
• Achievement: Setting and celebrating goals achieved.

These fields of action reduce stress and increase well-being and performance when applied proactively.

Health Promotion Implementation

To initiate and develop structured health promotion in SMEs, here are a few simple steps:

• Identify critical points (absences, staff fluctuations).
• Choose appropriate tools, starting small to avoid overloading.
• Involve HR as managers' partners.
• Use the tools in a planned and gradual manner.
• Encourage feedback and open exchanges on the impact of initiatives.
• Adapt or change the tools every month if necessary.

Conclusion

Promoting workplace health is not only beneficial to employee well-being, but it also strengthens the employer brand, reduces costs, and decreases staff fluctuation. By investing in positive leadership practices and appropriate tools, SMEs can create a healthy and productive work environment that attracts and retains talent while improving overall business performance.