Managing employees personal problems has become one of the tools, techniques and processes of modern human resources management. The problems may vary from marital strife, bereavement to financial matters etc. The resultant effect could be absenteeism, poor productivity and other negative behaviour in the workplace.
It then becomes necessary that a Manager should be able to provide assistance by way of counselling, offering financial advice etc.
The Human Resources team should adopt policies aimed at promoting employee respect and professionalism. A company that institutes and enforces policies that allow zero tolerance for harassment, for discrimination and for safety incidents, makes its workforce feel safe, supported and respected. Employers may also help by arming employees with the tools to cope with personal problems. For example, companies can offer managers training in dealing with emotionally related issues in the workplace, courses on communication skills and conflict resolutions. They can also conduct pschometric test to determine what makes each employees tick.
Moreso, Management should show more empathy in handling issues like this. For example, when employees are going through challenges in their lives, some flexibility in the work schedule cab be very helpful in easing their stress.
Of course, business needs remain top priority, but it is worth mentioning that exploring options such as flexible part time employment, working from home, job sharing could go a long way to help. The bottom line is that employees that feel supported by their companies will also feel more positive about their jobs, they will also be more productive, less likely to burn out more likely to recommend the company as a place to work and more willing to go the extra mile for the organization.
