How can employees be well supported?
The war in Ukraine is now almost three months long and it affects us all. In our private and professional lives, we are confronted with new challenges after the stresses and strains of the pandemic.
Due to the potentially threatening situation over which we have no control, as well as due to the increasing economic worries of many people, fears and associated emotional feelings such as nervousness, irritability, etc. can arise more quickly and intensively - and these must be taken seriously.
Employees often take their fears and worries with them into their daily work. Some are also personally affected because they come from Ukraine or have relatives there. Others have experienced war or flight themselves and are reminded of these times in their lives.
How can companies be good to their employees under these circumstances - while at the same time taking care of their needs and ensuring that their ability to work is maintained?
When employees find it difficult to concentrate and no longer perform as well as they used to, fear or anxiety can sometimes be a reason: When we have anxiety, we focus our capacity on dealing with it. Allowing and accepting a rational fear as a feeling that is appropriate to the current situation can provide relief as a first step. Set a good example - as a leader, you can certainly let your staff know that they too are moved by what is happening.
In line with your corporate culture, you can suggest a jour fixe, for example, in which employees can exchange ideas - so they realise that they are not alone with their feelings. Such initiatives can strengthen the team structure and increase bonding - we can also master this situation together!
Offer yourself as a contact person for individual counselling in acute cases - keep the telephone numbers of psychological counselling centres within reach in case of a crisis. Communicate that psychological support is also available in a crisis and remind people of the services offered by the EAP Institute.
You can put misinformation in the media into perspective by calling the responsible office - for example, the disaster management office. In addition, draw attention to positive news in order to make room for and raise awareness of positive events.
The fact that you cannot end the war as an individual, but can support it indirectly through material or financial donations, can potentially be relieving. Respond to feelings in an appreciative and understanding way - their understanding will be received and responded to accordingly in the team.
If you as a manager would like support in this special situation, we are very happy to assist you with our EAP Executive Coaching!
EAP counsellors are there for you.
Yours sincerely, your EAP team
Many people want to help. We have put together a selection of different ways in which you can support those affected by the war.
