Exploring Workplace Wellbeing: A Study from Dublin to Berlin
In the world of academia, valuable research often blossoms through collaborations that transcend borders. Such a remarkable partnership has yielded a groundbreaking study titled "An exploration of perceived drivers of engagement and disengagement in workplace wellbeing programs in the Republic of Ireland from a Resource Utilization Theory perspective" This study is the result of the combined efforts of Prof. Dr. Jennifer Hynes, Head of the BA in Business Administration at Berlin International University of Applied Sciences (BI), and Brian Crooke, a visionary from Workplace Wellbeing Ireland and Tangent, Trinity's Ideas Workspace, Ireland. Supported by BI, this study was recently presented at the renowned European Academy of Management (EURAM), signifying the significance of workplace wellbeing.
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The study delves into the intricate dynamics of workplace well-being programs with a specific focus on the Republic of Ireland. Leveraging the Resource Utilization Theory (RUT) perspective, the research seeks to uncover the factors that shape employee engagement or disengagement within these programs. The collaboration between Prof. Dr. Jennifer Hynes and Brian Crooke exemplifies the synergy between academic expertise and practical insights. By melding their insights from both sides of the academic-practical spectrum, they shed light on the multifaceted dimensions of workplace wellbeing.
In this study, the focus lies on investigating the factors driving engagement in employee wellbeing programs from the employee's perspective while also proposing strategies to heighten participation in workplace wellbeing initiatives. Employing a qualitative methodology conducted across two stages, the research first utilized a questionnaire to gauge wellbeing resources' effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. Statistical and thematic analyses revealed that organizational size significantly influences the likelihood of offering well-being initiatives and having dedicated health and well-being resources. Larger organizations were found to provide a broader range of programs. Communication, design, and perceived organizational support emerged as key determinants of engagement, substantiated by semi-structured interviews that led to three primary themes. Although it is not a longitudinal or intervention study, the insights provide valuable direction for organizations seeking to optimize their investments in workplace wellbeing resources, offering actionable insights to enhance employee engagement and promote healthier, more effective work environments.
In conclusion, this collaborative study, enriched by the support of Berlin International University, has set in motion a ripple effect that extends beyond geographical limits. The synthesis of academic rigor, practical experience, and cross-border cooperation underscores the pioneering spirit of research in today's ever-evolving corporate landscape. By combining their expertise, Prof. Dr. Jennifer Hynes and Brian Crooke have catalyzed a new era of understanding in workplace wellbeing—a paradigm that transcends borders and enriches the global discourse on employee wellness, engagement, and productivity.