An image taken of me by Rach on a walk in the Blue Mountains, called Federal Pass, it was raining and foggy that day, the impacts that sport and just moving have on your mental health and overall well-being cannot be underestimated.

Keep on walking …

On R U OK?

Day, observed on the 12th of September, we at Big Wave Digital, leaders in Digital Marketing and Technical recruitment, take a moment to emphasise the importance of mental well-being in the workplace. Based in Sydney, Paddington, and with our extended family in New Zealand, including our colleague Jules, we understand the significance of checking in with our work colleagues, not just today, but every day.

The Need for Daily Check-Ins

In a world where we are more connected digitally yet often isolated, the importance of personal connections, especially in the workplace, cannot be overstated. Post-Covid-19, as we navigate through a world that experienced unprecedented lockdowns and social distancing, the value of asking a simple “R U OK?” has amplified.

The Role of Big Wave Digital

At Big Wave Digital, led by Keiran in Sydney and Jules in New Zealand, we recognise the challenges that job seekers and professionals face in today’s fast-paced environment. Mental health matters, especially when navigating the often challenging path of career progression.

Why Reach Out to Colleagues?

1. Fostering a Supportive Environment: Regular check-ins cultivate a culture of support and understanding, crucial in building a positive workplace.
2. Early Identification of Mental Health Issues: Consistent communication can help in recognising early signs of stress or mental health concerns.
3. Enhancing Team Cohesion: When colleagues feel supported, it strengthens team bonds and fosters a sense of belonging.
4. Boosting Morale and Productivity: A simple conversation can uplift someone’s mood, directly impacting their productivity and overall job satisfaction.
5. Building Trust: Regular interactions build trust, making it easier for employees to discuss issues that they might otherwise keep to themselves.
6. Encouraging Open Communication: It sets a precedent for open dialogue about mental health, breaking down stigmas.
7. Adapting to Post-Covid Work Environment: In a world recovering from the impacts of Covid-19, daily check-ins help address the feelings of isolation.

The Journey of Job Seeking and Mental Health

Navigating the job market can be a rollercoaster of emotions. Keiran, from our Sydney office, emphasises the importance of staying positive, “Job seeking is not just about skills and experience; it’s about resilience and maintaining a positive mindset.”

Jules, from our New Zealand office, adds, “The journey to finding the right job is as much about mental preparedness as it is about professional qualifications.”

Big Wave Digital’s Approach to Mental Health

We believe in holistic recruitment, which means we don’t just look at a candidate’s skills but also consider their mental well-being. Our approach is about understanding the individual, their aspirations, and challenges.

Mental Health Strategies in the Workplace

Regular Check-Ins: Implementing regular check-ins with team members, not just about work but about their general well-being.

Training Programs: Offering mental health training programs to help employees identify and support colleagues who might be struggling.

Flexible Work Arrangements: Understanding that each employee’s situation is unique and offering flexible work arrangements where possible.

Creating Safe Spaces: Ensuring there are safe, confidential spaces for employees to discuss mental health issues without judgment.

Promoting Work-Life Balance: Encouraging employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance, which is crucial for mental well-being.

Offering Professional Support: Providing access to professional mental health support, such as counselling services.

Inclusive Culture: Building an inclusive culture where diversity and individual differences are celebrated.

1. Keiran’s Story – The Power of Listening: In our Sydney office, Keiran recalls an instance where a simple check-in with a team member led to a significant breakthrough. The employee was showing signs of stress but hadn’t voiced his concerns. Keiran’s decision to ask, “R U OK?” opened a dialogue that not only helped the team member address his immediate challenges but also fostered a deeper sense of trust within the team. This experience reinforced the importance of being attentive and proactive in recognising signs of distress among colleagues.
2. 2Jules’ Experience – Turning the Tide with Empathy: Over in New Zealand, Jules shared how an open conversation about mental health helped transform an employee’s experience. This team member, struggling with anxiety, felt isolated and overwhelmed. Jules’ approach to regularly check in and offer support led to a noticeable improvement in the employee’s engagement and performance. It was a testament to how a culture of empathy can positively impact an individual’s mental health and, in turn, their contribution to the team.
3. A Team Member’s Journey – From Struggle to Strength: Another compelling story comes from a member of our digital marketing team. Faced with personal challenges that were affecting her work, she found solace and support through regular check-ins with her manager. These interactions were not about delving into personal details but about showing genuine care and offering support. This approach helped her navigate a difficult period, demonstrating how consistent, thoughtful communication can make a substantial difference in an employee’s life.

The Lasting Impact of These Stories

These anecdotes from Keiran and Jules, along with the experience of our team member, underscore the profound impact that checking in and offering support can have in a workplace. It’s about creating an environment where people feel valued, heard, and supported.

Big Wave Digital’s Pledge

At Big Wave Digital, we pledge to continue fostering an environment where mental health is prioritised, and every member feels comfortable sharing and seeking support. We believe that by nurturing a culture of openness and empathy, we can help each other grow both professionally and personally.

Final Thoughts

As we observe R U OK? Day, let’s remember that our responsibility towards each other’s mental well-being extends beyond the workplace. It’s about building a community of care, understanding, and support. Together, we can create a world where asking “R U OK?” is a part of our everyday life.

Let’s nurture a culture of care and support.

R U OK? Day is more than just a day; it’s a reminder of the ongoing commitment we need to make towards mental health, particularly in the workplace. At Big Wave Digital, we understand that our strength lies in our people – their mental health and well-being are paramount. Let’s continue to ask, listen, encourage action, and check in regularly, not just today but every day.

Let’s make every day an R U OK? day.

#RUOKDay2024 #MentalHealthMatters #BigWaveDigital #WorkplaceWellbeing #CheckIn #SupportEachOther

The future is bright, let’s go there together!

Let us help you build a Brilliant team in Digital.

Big Wave Digital are experts in Digital Recruitment Sydney

At Big Wave Digital , Sydney’s leading digital, blockchain and technical recruitment agency, we have deep connections, experience and proven expertise, and the ability to achieve a win for all parties in the challenging recruiting process. We can connect to highly coveted digital and tech talent with the world’s best employers. To discover more, just give us a call at (02) 9380 4431.

Keiran Hathorn is the CEO & Founder of Big Wave Digital. A Sydney based niche Digital, Blockchain & Technology recruitment company. Keiran leads a high performance, experienced recruitment team, assisting companies of all sizes secure the best talent.