In the fast-paced world of recruitment, the pressures of meeting deadlines, securing the best talent for clients, and managing the expectations of numerous stakeholders can be immense.
On Time to Talk Day, a day dedicated to breaking down the barriers surrounding mental health discussions, we at Astute take a moment to reflect on the importance of these conversations and how they shape our work environment.
Time to Talk Day: Mental health awareness in recruitment
The recruitment industry, known for its high stakes and competitive edge, can often lead to stress and burnout among professionals.
Recognising the signs of mental health struggles and fostering an environment where these can be openly discussed is essential.
At Astute, we understand that acknowledging the human element of our work is key to not just professional success, but personal wellbeing.
A culture of openness
Astute is committed to creating a culture where conversations about mental health are encouraged.
One of the ways we support this commitment is through our Mental Health First Aiders—team members trained to identify mental health concerns and provide initial support and guidance.
This initiative ensures that everyone at Astute knows they have someone to turn to when they need it most.
Flexibility in work arrangements is another cornerstone of our approach to mental health.
Recognising that one size does not fit all, we offer work flexibility options to help our employees manage their professional and personal lives more effectively.
Moreover, our 9-Day Fortnights (every second Friday off work, fully paid) is a practice we’ve instituted to promote work-life balance, allowing our team to recharge and spend time on activities they enjoy outside of work.
Encouraging conversations
Encouraging conversations about mental health and wellbeing doesn’t have to be daunting.
It starts with creating a safe space where employees feel valued and heard.
Here are a few tips to foster such an environment:
- Regular check-ins: Managers and team leaders are encouraged to have regular, informal check-ins with their teams, not just about work but also about their wellbeing and how they’re feeling.
- Mental health awareness training: Educating all employees about mental health can demystify the subject and promote a more inclusive atmosphere.
- Promote the use of available resources: Regularly remind employees of the mental health resources and support services available to them, including access to Mental Health First Aiders.
Resources and support available
At Astute, we are dedicated to providing our employees and candidates with the support they need to maintain their mental health.
Apart from our internal initiatives, we also encourage our team to make use of external mental health resources and services to seek the support they need.
Time to Talk Day serves as a reminder of the power of conversation in breaking down the stigma of mental health.
At Astute, we are proud to foster an environment where talking about mental health is part of our everyday.
About the author
Sam Bradshaw heads up Astute’s People team, responsible for the HR department, internal recruitment, learning and development and corporate, social responsibility.
Sam has a CIPD Level 7 in HR Development and Talent Management, a Level 7 CIPD award in Employment Law and a Masters degree in HR Development.
