Another question that I recently got from the feedback form is about how to support the human behind the work. How can we identify folks who are feeling vulnerable and support them better?
There are lots of reasons why people may be feeling stressed. Certainly there are lots of external factors in the world right now that may be causing you and your colleagues distress. Then there are the normal stresses of life, family, relationships, etc. Obviously there are work stresses. The amount of work, the nature of the work, colleagues, and others can all contribute.
If you are going to better support your team, you have to know your people. People all deal with and show signs of stress differently. You can always ask, but not everyone will be forthcoming. The better you know people and pay attention to the way they act, the better you’ll be able to identify signs of stress in someone.
When you see one of your colleagues under unusual stress, make sure they know about the University resources that are available to them (see the list below and share the resources with your staff—they may not know about them). Professionals can be very helpful. Be willing to listen. Ask questions and listen to the words, the tone, and watch body language. Tone and body language can convey more than words in high stakes conversations. Sometimes, just listening can be a big help. If it is appropriate, adjust the work or expectations. Taking care of someone when they need it usually comes back to you when you need it. If it doesn’t, so what? Doing the right thing is what counts.
The most important thing that you can do for someone is let them know that you care.
- Work Life & Well-Being
- Workplace Well-Being (aimed at faculty, but contains resources for everyone)
- Employee Assistance Program (includes on-campus and remote counseling opportunities)