Healthcare Business Today: Expert Tips on Leveraging Employee Resource Groups

One of the most significant ways companies can positively impact employee mental health is through Employee Resource Groups (ERG), says G&A Partners’ Senior HR Advisor Amy VanHooser in a recent Healthcare Business Today article.

In the article “How Employee Resource Groups Support Mental Health,” VanHooser defines an ERG as a voluntary, employee-led group that brings people together based on shared characteristics, interests, experiences, or identities.

With increasing workloads, external stress, and higher chances of burnout looming over employees, “ERGs help employees thrive by providing them with a meaningful space to recharge and feel supported,” says Van Hooser.

Van Hooser emphasizes that ERGs can help to bridge the gap between employees and leadership, creating a more aligned culture with increased morale.

“These groups provide valuable insights that inform wellness initiatives and resource development (among other things) and help to create a more inclusive, responsive workplace culture where employees feel their unique viewpoints are heard and considered,” writes Van Hooser.

Leadership should work with current ERGs to identify and fill in any gaps to better support employees' mental health needs.

“It’s also a great time to consider forming new ERGs where there are gaps,” writes VanHooser. “The involvement and enthusiasm of employees and ERG members are critical to creating groups that truly make a difference—ensuring their feedback leads to positive change.” 

Read the full article here.