Grief in the Workplace
World wellbeing at work week covers a huge and diverse (often complex) spectrum of areas. As an employer it is vital we are up to date with options and support available for the team. But I often wonder as “the boss” what’s out there for the employer, rather selfishly specifically when it comes to bereavement.
So much research is there (and rightly so) as to how to help the employees; ranging from their legal rights, to how to speak to the team and how to offer them the counselling to make their back to work an easier experience.
But what about the employer? I researched far and wide and failed to find any substantial research and/or guidelines as to how to deal with grief as the employer.
I lost my mum earlier this year 9 months and 27 days ago to be exact, and it still feel as raw – more in reality – than it did in January. I still run the business, with amazing help from my team. I still deal with the problems from clients and candidates. I run the accounts and assist with the recruitment and development of our team and work to develop the business further. I am lucky that I get to celebrate the successes too and thankfully there are many.
Griever Types
One of the areas that I did find helpful was from Employment Hero who did a great study as to the different types of griever:
Intuitive Griever: “Is where the person is more likely to show how they are feeling, and may experience powerful waves of emotions throughout their working day.” But as the owner can we do that, or do we need to remain “professional” and “lead” the team? No one like a weak leader-right?
Instrumental Griever: “An instrumental griever is less likely to outwardly express their emotions.” So, do we as employers need to be an instrumental griever in the workplace when naturally we are intuitive?
I know this may seem indulgent, it isn’t intentional, it is a genuine thought and a request for the fabulous people out there to help the employer; whether from a professional / expert perspective, and to inform the wider business world that sometimes we as “leaders” need a cuddle and a bloody good cry in the loos too. It doesn’t make us weak, it makes us human.
Written by Siobhan Courtney, Managing Director of the Eventus Recruitment Group.