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OPINION
Supportive leaders who prioritize communication and psychological safety can foster a positive work environment where employees feel valued and motivated. Nurturing a supportive work culture
I n our modern workplaces, the relationship between people leaders and employees is crucial not only for productivity but also for mental well-being and overall employee experience. New research is demonstrating that people leaders have a more significant impact on their employees’ mental health than doctors or even therapists.
Victoria Verlezza, Ph.D.
Thus a supportive, empathetic, and inclusive supervisor can foster a positive work environment, whereas a toxic or unsupportive one can have detrimental effects on employee mental health. Understanding the dynamics of this relationship is essential for creating healthier workplaces and promoting overall employee well-being and experience. ■ Creating a supportive and inclusive work culture. People leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the culture and climate of the workplace. In an effort to create an inclusive work environment, people leaders can impact the culture positively, so all individuals feel as though they are seen, valued, and heard. A supportive manager or supervisor recognizes the
individual strengths and challenges of their team members and provides them with the resources, encouragement, and feedback they need to succeed. By fostering open communication, offering recognition for achievements, and promoting work-life integration, people leaders can create an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and psychologically safe. ■ Managing stress and workload. One of the primary stressors in the workplace is the pressure to meet deadlines, achieve targets, and manage competing priorities. A supportive supervisor who understands the importance of managing workflows and helps employees set realistic goals, prioritize tasks, and delegate
See VICTORIA VERLEZZA , page 10
THE ZWEIG LETTER MAY 20, 2024, ISSUE 1538
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