A Bold Move Towards Improving Mental Health and Productivity
Smith Madden Creative Agency
Smith Madden Implements Noon Closure for Employees: A Bold Move Towards Improving Mental Health and Productivity
In a move towards prioritising employee well-being and boosting productivity, Smith Madden has announced a significant shift in its office hours.
In a new company policy, employees will have their workdays end at noon on Fridays, without any compromise to their pay or the quality of service provided to clients.
The policy to close office hours at noon comes as a response to mounting evidence showcasing the detrimental effects of overwork and long hours on employee mental health and overall productivity.
In a 2023 survey conducted by Allianz Australia, 33 percent of workers claimed they were feeling overworked, stressed and severely burnt out, with a significant 39 percent increase in the number of days taken off work due to mental health.
As a people-first company, Smith Madden recognises the importance of mental health in the workplace, and is committed to decreasing these numbers by fostering a healthier work-life balance.
"As a people-first agency, we believe that prioritising our employees' well-being is not just a choice, but a responsibility. Our decision to implement a Friday noon closure reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of balance, productivity, and happiness in the workplace and reduce the levels of burnout that many businesses are already seeing in 2024,” says Lauren Smith, Director of Smith Madden.
Studies have consistently shown that excessive work hours can lead to career burnout, increased stress levels, a decline in cognitive performance, and in severe cases heart disease or stroke (WHO 2021). By proactively addressing these issues, Smith Madden aims to create a more sustainable and supportive work environment for its employees.
One of the key benefits of this new policy is its positive impact on employee mental health. By allowing employees to finish work at noon, Smith Madden is providing them with valuable time to recharge, pursue personal interests, and spend quality time with their loved ones. This increased flexibility can help reduce stress and prevent burnout, ultimately leading to happier and more motivated employees.
Moreover, the shortened workday can also lead to a boost in productivity. Research has shown that long hours do not necessarily equate to increased productivity. In fact, excessive overtime can often result in diminishing returns, as fatigue sets in and concentration wanes.
By prioritising quality over quantity, Smith Madden is empowering its employees to work more efficiently during the hours they are in the office, leading to improved performance and output.
"At Smith Madden, we understand the importance of honouring our commitments to our clients while prioritising the well-being of our employees. The decision to close office hours at noon does not compromise the company's commitment to delivering exceptional service to its clients.
Our team strategically manages client meetings and deadlines to accommodate our new schedule, guaranteeing that our clients receive the same unwavering level of service and attention that they've come to expect from us,” says Lauren.
Additionally, employees will still receive their full-time pay despite the reduced work hours. This demonstrates Smith Madden's recognition of the value of its employees' time and dedication. By offering full-time pay for fewer hours worked, the company is not only investing in the well-being of its workforce but also fostering a culture of trust and appreciation.
The company's dedication to prioritising mental health both short and long term, extends far beyond implementing a noon closure for employees. Recognising the significance of employee well-being, the company has instituted a range of initiatives aimed at fostering a supportive and balanced work environment.
From organising team-building events outside of the office to offering flexible work-from-home options, Smith Madden empowers its employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Additionally, robust task and capacity management systems are in place to ensure that workloads remain manageable and sustainable, preventing burnout and enhancing productivity. The management team at Smith Madden is committed to providing emotional support and guidance, fostering a culture of empathy and support within the organisation.
In this holistic approach to workplace well-being, Smith Madden aims to follow leading Australian businesses prioritising work-life balance, and looks forward to upholding a new standard in the industry, while laying the groundwork for a brighter future for its employees.
For more information:
Smith Madden Creative Agency
Lauren Smith
lauren@smithmadden.com
