On April 7th, people around the globe will mark World Health Day.

Health is of course personal. But increasingly, the modern workplace is the logical space for employees to improve their lifestyle and behaviours. They spend a large portion of their lives at work, and in the professional environment, habits – both good and bad – spread like wildfire.

As an employer, you can commit to a Culture of health that supports your people. But, on World Health Day, we ask: what does this really mean? And how can you do it?

From the ground up

In his paper, The do's and don'ts of workplace health and wellbeing programs, Dr. Ron Goetzel, member of the Virgin Pulse Science Advisory Board, says a healthy company culture is one where employee wellbeing – both physical and psychological – is weaved into every single aspect of the business. It’s in daily activities, like walking meetings and desk breaks, all the way up to a company’s policy, values and mission statement.

A true culture of health is built on the understanding that, if an employee is sick or tired or stressed, they cannot perform in a way that benefits their career or the organisation they work for. Ultimately, it’s the merging of company beliefs and values with personal ones.

How do you get there?

As a first step, keep it focused, but simple. One of the big misconceptions behind a healthy culture is that you have to do everything by yourself and all at once; offer gym memberships, classes and devices.

These are all important features in health and wellbeing as it looks in 2017. And they are helpful in supporting your overall strategy. But first there needs to be an overarching, structured strategy that drives people towards their options.

As a first step, express your intent and commitment to health. Provide opportunities and permission for that walking meeting, that supportive chat, or lunchtime gym session. If you want to expand your offering, partner with experts like Virgin Pulse, who can offer a suite of solutions and integrate the many options available.

As a next step, be sure to extend your offer to the entire workforce. Often, when health and wellbeing strategy gets created, it’s with the strivers and achievers – who will sign up and drive engagement – in mind.

They are great for buy-in; as supporters and champions of your cause. But a true culture of health has a much wider worldview.

It also reaches the employees who need it most – and they’re not visible. They’re unsure, and shy, because they’re intimidated by the idea of changing the habits of a lifetime.

You must reach these people. And when you do, when you can demonstrate health improvements across your entire workforce, the return will be even more spectacular.

Don’t stop at World Health Day. Build a culture of health long-term with our tip sheet, 5 ways to help employees build habits that matter.

If you’re ready to expand your offering, contact us for a solution that fits your needs.