Absenteeism is a challenge that affects many companies, leading to disrupted processes, reduced productivity, and increased workloads for remaining colleagues. Scientific insights from the Well-being Works research chair highlighted the essential role of recognition in building an effective and sustainable well-being policy at bpost.
The power of appreciation
During the first COVID-19 lockdowns, postal workers—like healthcare professionals—received a great deal of public appreciation. This had a noticeable effect: motivation levels increased, and bpost observed a significant drop in absenteeism. “It opened our eyes: when employees feel valued, their engagement and well-being improve,” says Jan Matthys, Director of Engage & Care at bpost. “This realization made us think about how to integrate appreciation structurally into our policies.”