The rise of technology has brought many benefits to workplaces but has, also, led to some employees feeling isolated from their counterparts and this has led to an increase in depression or suicidal tendencies in some. Technology has allowed us to get work done from anywhere, any time of day, and stay connected at all hours of the day and night.
The problem with always being connected is that we never get a break and take time for ourselves. Some scientific studies have found that we are addicted to our smartphones and actually suffer from withdrawal if we are away from our phones for more than a few minutes. How did we get to this point?!
How can this be combatted? How can employers make the work environment more suitable for better mental health of employees?
Less Connected and Less Plugged In
Our society has gone from one of personal interaction to one of increased connectivity but less face time. Technology is being overused and we never quite get away from it. Studies that have been done indicate that male managers in Europe are feeling the impact the most and feeling the most lonely. Remote workers are obviously the most isolated and more than 1/3 of the global workforce now works remotely.
The remote workers are more likely to leave their company and the cost to retrain new employees to replace them is upwards of $10,000 per vacancy. People are meant to socialize with each other and interaction allows for ideas to be exchanged and innovation then takes place.
Improving Work Relationships
Leadership should encourage more physical interaction of their employees using resources like face-to-face meetings at certain intervals, conferences, team building vacations, and after work happy hours.
Encouraging employees to pick up the phone and call a colleague rather than sending texts or emails back and forth has been found to help workers feel more connected rather than isolated.
Technology should be used as a bridge and not as a barrier to human connection and interaction. Face-to-face workplaces seem to be going the way of the dinosaur in favor of working from home or in smaller co-working environments.
What have you found works to prevent loneliness at work and feelings of feeling left out or neglected? How can employers take good care of employees mental health so as to not lose them to other jobs at other companies?
I would love to hear your thoughts!