The Interview Session

Indeed, many job candidates often list the “ability to work well under pressure” as a key selling point during job interviews. While employees need to be able to handle stress and tight deadlines, it’s equally important for employers to recognize that a supportive work environment can lead to better job performance and well-being.

During job interviews, employers can ask candidates about their preferred work environments and how they manage stress. This can provide insight into whether the candidate is looking for a supportive and collaborative work environment or if they may be more focused on meeting individual goals at the expense of their well-being.

By prioritizing a supportive work environment, employers can attract and retain employees who value collaboration, communication, and well-being and are committed to producing high-quality work. This can lead to a more positive workplace culture where employees feel valued and empowered to do their best.

While the ability to work under pressure is an important trait, it’s equally important for employers to prioritize a supportive work environment that values employee well-being and leads to better job performance. By shifting this perspective, employers can create a workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent and promotes productivity and collaboration.

The Business and Employer Perspective and Consideration

In the past, working well under pressure was considered a desirable trait in the workplace. Employees who could perform efficiently in high-stress situations were often admired and rewarded for their ability to handle challenging work environments. However, as our understanding of workplace well-being has evolved, we see a shift in this perspective.

Employees increasingly recognize the importance of a conducive and supportive work environment. This means having the resources, tools, and support necessary to perform their job without the constant pressure and stress of unrealistic deadlines or expectations.

This shift is not only a result of a better understanding of mental health and well-being but also a recognition that a supportive work environment can lead to better productivity and quality of work. Employees who feel supported and valued are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their work.

A supportive work environment can also lead to a more positive company culture, where employees feel empowered to share ideas, collaborate, and support one another. This can lead to a more creative and innovative workplace where employees feel comfortable taking risks and trying new approaches.

Of course, this shift does not mean the ability to work under pressure is no longer critical. There will always be times when deadlines are tight and stress levels are high. However, it does mean employers must recognize the importance of creating a supportive and conducive work environment for their employees.

This can be achieved by providing resources such as training, mentoring, and coaching, offering flexibility in work arrangements, and encouraging open communication between management and employees. By doing so, employers can create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work.

Consider Alex, A Gen Z Employee

Alex joined the company as a social media manager, proud of their ability to work efficiently under pressure. However, after a few months, they started to feel stressed and overwhelmed. They would spend long hours at work and even bring work home. Eventually, they began to feel burnt out, and their productivity suffered.

One day, Alex’s manager noticed they seemed stressed and asked how they felt. Instead of telling them to work harder, the manager listened to their concerns and suggested a plan to help balance their workload. They also provided support and resources to help manage their stress levels.

Over time, Alex felt more valued in their job and appreciated the support of their manager. They could take breaks and work from home when needed, which helped improve their well-being and motivation. As a result, their quality of work improved, and they felt more engaged in their role.

This experience taught Alex the importance of having a supportive work environment. They realized that while the ability to work under pressure is essential, it is equally crucial to have a work-life balance and support system to manage stress and maintain well-being.

What businesses and employers can do next?

Creating a supportive and inclusive work environment is crucial for businesses and employers to attract and retain top talent, promote productivity, and foster a positive workplace culture.

An employee has to view their workplace and be proud of it. As the image shows, one can comfortably say, “this must be the place,” and be happy working here.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

Here are some steps businesses and employers can take to prioritize employee well-being and create a more supportive work environment that meets the needs of all employees:

1. Listen to your employees: Employers should take the time to listen to their employees’ concerns and feedback. Regular employee surveys, one-on-one meetings, and focus groups can help employers understand their employees’ needs and address any issues.
2. Prioritize work-life balance: Employers should prioritize work-life balance by offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, flexible hours, and unlimited vacation days. This allows employees to balance their work and personal lives and reduces stress and burnout.
3. Create an inclusive workplace culture: Employers should prioritize respecting and valuing diversity. This can be done by offering diversity and inclusion training, creating employee resource groups, and fostering an environment where all employees feel heard and respected.
4. Offer professional development opportunities: Employers should invest in their employees’ professional development by offering training and skill-building opportunities. This not only helps employees feel valued but also helps them build the skills they need to succeed in their roles.
5. Prioritize mental health support: Employers should offer mental health support and resources to employees, such as counseling services, mental health days, and wellness programs. This helps employees manage stress and maintain their well-being.

Businesses and employers can take several steps to create a more supportive work environment that meets the needs of all employees.

Hence, by taking active measures in prioritizing work-life balance, creating an inclusive workplace culture, offering professional development opportunities, and prioritizing mental health support, businesses and employers can attract and retain top talent, promote productivity, and foster a positive workplace culture.

Take Away

It’s time to rethink the way we approach job interviews. The phrase “can work under pressure” may have been a selling point in the past, but it’s no longer enough in today’s rapidly changing world.

As we’ve seen, the pressure to perform constantly at high levels can affect employee well-being. Businesses and employers must be more supportive of creating a positive work environment. Companies and employers can attract and retain top talent, promote productivity, and foster a culture of well-being and success by prioritizing work-life balance, mental health support, and professional development opportunities.

Let’s move beyond the outdated idea that working under pressure is the most critical skill and instead focus on creating a workplace that supports the whole person — both in and out of the office.

By Votes Wakoli