Supporting Employees: Lessons for Managers

Ensuring Confidentiality and Empathy

Reassure and Listen

When faced with a situation where an employee confides in you:

• Ensure confidentiality and genuine concern.
• Make them feel heard and understood.
• Repeating their concerns can sometimes lead to deeper insights.

Promoting Self-Reflection and Hope

Encourage Reflection

Guide the employee to reflect on past coping strategies:

• Help them identify what has worked for them before.
• Ask probing questions to uncover effective methods.

Offer Hope and Direction

Empower the employee by:

• Instilling confidence in their ability to navigate the situation.
• Pointing them towards resources and support networks.
• Emphasising that solutions lie within their grasp.

Collaboration and Support

Seeking Additional Support

Recognise that solutions may involve:

• Involving HR or other relevant parties, with the employee's consent.
• Encouraging the employee to seek advice from peers or mentors.

Ongoing Review and Adjustment

Commit to:

• Regularly reviewing progress and adjusting strategies as needed.
• Offering continuous support through the process of adaptation.
• Suggesting ways to manage stress and maintain work-life balance.