Returning to work after an injury can be challenging, but there are things you can do to help make it easier for your employees.
Here are three examples of approaches we believe to be beneficial to you both.
1. Utilise the power of positive workplace relationships
We know the most important factor to help ensure a successful return to work after an injury is the relationship between a worker and their supervisor.
We’ve seen this time and again with our clients, and it’s backed by research, as a powerful and often underestimated influence in more positive outcomes.
The simple truth is, regardless of the severity of the injury, or the type of work involved, if a worker likes and respects their supervisor, they’ll be more motivated to return to work – for their own sake and for their employer’s sake.
2. Keep up the communication and support
When someone’s recovering from an injury, they’re often dealing with unfamiliar thoughts, emotions and stressors – which they might be finding difficult to navigate.
But if they feel cared about by their employer, and feel as though their workplace is sincerely invested in their recovery, it can become one less thing to worry about.
Showing your support and care can help create a sense of belonging.
It can also provide them with a sense of importance to the organisation, to show that they matter.
Plus, importantly, this then helps assure them they still have a job, a stable income, and a future with some certainty.
So if they’re in hospital, make sure a workplace colleague visits them.
If they’re delayed returning to work, keep regular contact to check that they’re coping ok
If appropriate, make sure to keep inviting them to any team events outside work, so they still feel part of the team.
It’s important for them to know it’s not a case of ‘out of sight, out of mind’, so they don’t feel excluded or forgotten.
3. The benefits of providing lighter duties (for you and your employee)
In some cases, depending on the industry and type of work involved, this can be easier said than done – but creating lighter duties for an injured worker on their return does make the processes much smoother for everyone.
So if you can, we highly recommend you offer duties better suited to your worker’s condition and their current ability.
It’s proven that the earlier someone can return to work after an injury, the more successful their recovery (shorter recovery time, less physical and psychological impacts, less risk of psychosocial barriers).
And, workplaces benefit too, with better staff retention, improved team morale, and lower financial impacts.
So remember, successfully helping someone return to work when they’re medically able to do so, is a win for everyone.
Using the three points highlighted above as a guide, you’ll find it easier for you and your injured colleague to manage their successful return to work.
If you’d like any further information, or expert advice on this subject, please contact us.
