By Shruti Menon Seeboo
In September, we interviewed David Botte, Human Resources (HR) Director at Intercontinental Trust Limited (ITL), to understand how their activities tie into the International Week of Happiness at Work, celebrated over 23-27 September.
In our second blog in the HR series delving into happiness at the workplace, we explore more key initiatives of the HR department at ITL.
These leading practices showcase how HR plays a pivotal role in promoting a mentally healthy workplace where employees are encouraged to communicate and express themselves through various initiatives.
Fostering mental health and well-being
At the outset, recognising that well-being is a critical component of overall workplace happiness, ITL has implemented several wellness initiatives aimed at supporting employee happiness at work. Among these initiatives are:
- Gym Access: Starting soon, ITL will provide employees with access to a gym facility to support their fitness goals and promote a healthy lifestyle underscoring the importance of physical well-being in the workplace.
- On-Site Blood Tests: To facilitate convenient health monitoring, ITL offered in September, on-site blood tests for employees. This initiative allows employees to easily check their health metrics and make informed decisions about their well-being.
- Fresh Fruits for Employees: ITL is committed to promoting nutritious eating habits by providing fresh fruits daily. This includes also a weekly calcium-boosting yogurt.
- Pamper Yourself Day: Recognising the need for relaxation and self-care, ITL will organise next year a “Pamper Yourself Day,” which features spa and wellness activities This initiative allows employees to unwind, recharge, and prioritise their well-being in a supportive environment.
David explained that these wellness initiatives are part of a broader strategy to create a balanced work-life experience, demonstrating ITL’s commitment to the holistic well-being of its workforce.
In addition to these initiatives, ITL hosts a “Bake and Bring” event, where employees can showcase their baking skills while contributing to a charitable cause. During a recent event, the company raised around MUR Rs 20,000, illustrating how food can be a powerful bonding factor among colleagues.
By encouraging employees to bring in homemade treats, ITL fosters a sense of community and personal connection, enhancing team dynamics. This initiative provides a regular opportunity for employees to engage in a fun, informal setting.
Using various communication tools and platforms
ITL employs various strategies to encourage employees to reflect on their happiness levels. An activity committee, composed of employees from different departments, plays a crucial role in organising workplace activities. This committee actively invites employees to share their ideas and suggestions, ensuring that initiatives resonate with their preferences and needs.
Furthermore, the company maintains open lines of communication through regular staff meetings and an organisational culture that encourages feedback. David highlighted the role of collaborative tools such as SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom in facilitating this communication. ITL uses these platforms to foster dynamic interaction among employees, supplemented by a weekly internal newsletter that features contributions from staff. This newsletter serves as a vital communication tool, ensuring that employees remain informed and engaged.
ITL utilises various communication tools, including specific WhatsApp groups for different levels of management and broader community groups that include all staff. For instance, the group CEO and Directors regularly share updates, and use these platforms to celebrate success. For instance, we had the ITL Football Team who reached the Final in the 2024 Mauritius Finance Sports Day. All these foster a sense of community and engagement among employees.
Open Area workspace
The workspace itself reflects this open culture, as approximately 90% of ITL operates in an open office environment. This layout promotes collaboration and accessibility, allowing employees to communicate more freely and engage with one another.
The role of HR in promoting well-being
David highlighted that HR practices are aligned with employee well-being through comprehensive induction programmes and ongoing training initiatives. New employees undergo a thorough onboarding process, which introduces them to the company’s culture and values while providing essential resources for their roles.
ITL’s leadership development programmes are another vital aspect of promoting growth and happiness in the workplace. These programmes focus on empowering employees to grow in their roles and take on leadership positions within the organisation. Recognition initiatives such as the “Employee of the Quarter” awards fosters a culture of appreciation and motivation. as employees are encouraged to recognise peers who go above and beyond in their roles. This peer-driven approach strengthens team dynamics and is essential for fostering happiness.
By prioritising effective communication, mental well-being, and a supportive culture, ITL sets a strong foundation for employee satisfaction and engagement. With leadership that values feedback and promotes an inclusive environment, ITL is well-positioned to cultivate a happy and productive workforce.
