Ask employees what they need and recognize that caregiving goes beyond childcare.

Nearly three-quarters of people surveyed in the U.S. have caregiving responsibilities yet there’s a disconnect between how employers and employees perceive its effects. Harvard Business Review (HBR) reports that only 24% of employers say that caregiving affects workplace productivity compared to 80% of employees. Understandably, employees don’t speak up about this because it could affect their careers. However, HBR says there are several things employers can do to help support employees who are caregivers for children, aging parents or other loved ones.

Recognize the scope of caregiving

Many employers already have programs in place to help parents care for children. What’s less common are programs to support employees who are caregivers for parents or other adults—like siblings, aunts, uncles or grown children—with medical needs.

HBR recommends establishing broad policies that allow flexibility for any family-related caregiving. Also, keep in mind that while many caregivers are women, men are caregivers too—and that caregivers may be any age.

Recognize the skills caregivers bring to work

Caregivers make great employees because they’re used to anticipating needs, spotting small problems before they become big ones and persevering in the face of difficulty. Recognize and champion these skills. In addition, employers can build stronger cultures by having leaders self-identify as caregivers who openly share their experiences about caregiving.

Ask employees what they need

Caregiving is not a static process, nor is it the same for every caregiver. HBR recommends using surveys to find out what employees need. Some folks may be responsible for after-school pick-up while others may be managing the care of a parent with cancer. You won’t know what they need unless you ask. Use the data you collect to make decisions to better help your employees who are caregivers.

Learn more about building workplace culture

Supporting caregivers is just one way to help retain employees and attract the right talent. Get our free whitepaper on building a best-in-class culture for five proven strategies to engage employees.

 

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