In an era where corporate responsibility extends far beyond profit margins, companies have a unique opportunity to champion positive change in the world. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), set by the United Nations, offer a blueprint for global sustainability, social progress, and a better future. They are a call to action for businesses to make a difference. One of the most impactful ways to achieve this is by supporting employee wellbeing through expert solutions. Here, we’ll explore the significance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how investing in your employees’ wellbeing aligns with and advances these vital global objectives.
The SDGs: A Blueprint for a Better World
The Sustainable Development Goals are 17 interconnected objectives that span poverty eradication, environmental protection, social equity, and economic growth. They represent a shared global vision for 2030, a world in which all people enjoy peace, prosperity, and opportunity. Every business, no matter its size or industry, has a role to play in this collective mission.
Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
Enhancing employee wellbeing is a direct contribution to Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. A workforce that is healthier and happier is more likely to be productive, engaged, and less prone to absenteeism. Employee wellness solutions provide the tools and resources for individuals to improve their physical and mental health, helping them lead better lives. For example, at CRAOI we help support holistic wellbeing by offering employee’s support that helps improve movement, mindfulness and happiness in the workplace through expert on-demand content, advice, workshops and more.
Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
Employee wellbeing is a catalyst for achieving Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. A content and healthy workforce is not just more productive but also less likely to leave their jobs. This contributes to reduced turnover rates, lower hiring costs, and enhanced job satisfaction, ultimately driving economic growth within the company. When an employee is feeling supported by their company and happy in their environment, they are more loyal and 7 times more likely to recommend their company to others. In a world where turnover is high, and the costs associated with them are growing (€14,650 per new hire in a company with over 250 employees)
According to the 2022 HR Barometer Report from Adare Human Resource Management, employee turnover rates have doubled in the past year and are expected to increase. Unfortately, recruitment costs have also risen, which is adding to the financial burden for businesses. On average, it will cost a small company around €7,500 per employee and for companies with 250 employees or more, this cost is much more significant, where they can expect to pay up to €14,690 per employee. With an average turnover rate of 18%, the costs of recruitment are too high to be ignored and a key way to help combat this issue is to create a healthier work culture and environment where employees feel well and valued.
Goal 5: Gender Equality
Wellness programs can address gender-specific health concerns and promote work-life balance, contributing to Goal 5: Gender Equality. By providing equal opportunities and support for all employees, businesses play a vital role in fostering gender equity within the workplace.
Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
The journey to achieving these SDGs is not one that any single company can undertake in isolation. Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals emphasises the importance of collaboration. By offering a wellness solution like CRAOI, companies create opportunities for collaboration with wellness experts and local communities, amplifying the positive impact of these initiatives.
Measuring and Reporting Impact
To truly align with the SDGs, it’s vital to measure and report on the impact of employee wellbeing solutions. Companies must evaluate changes in health, productivity, job satisfaction, and employee retention. By collecting and sharing this data, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to these global goals and inspire others to follow suit. CRAOI can help you with that. Our anonymous CRAOI wellbeing surveys and check-ins provide genuine insights into employee sentiments. This approach uncovers the truth that casual or observational methods often miss, preventing costly turnover and lost productivity while also measuring the success of wellbeing across the entire organisation.
Fostering a Culture of Wellbeing
It’s not just about offering resources; it’s about cultivating a culture of wellbeing within your company. The commitment to wellbeing should extend beyond office walls and impact the communities where employees live. This aligns with various SDGs related to poverty reduction and improving local environments.
Educate and Raise Awareness
Educate your employees about the connection between wellness programs and the SDGs. By fostering a culture of sustainability and social responsibility within your company, you create a community of change-makers who can help drive progress towards these global goals.
In conclusion, the Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action, a shared vision for a brighter, more sustainable future. As businesses, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to advance these goals. Supporting employee wellbeing through expert solutions is not just a corporate initiative; it’s a means to drive global change.
By contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals, companies become leaders in a worldwide movement toward sustainability, equality, and wellbeing. It’s a journey worth embarking upon, one that creates a positive impact within and beyond the workplace. Together, we can drive sustainable success and create a healthier, happier, and more prosperous world for all. To find out more, get in touch with us today – we would love to speak with you and help you on your journey to creating healthier, happier and more sustainable work environments for your employees.
