A
FEW WORDS FOR SUPERVISORS
VIOLENCE,
TURNOVER & DEPRESSION
Workplace Violence
Although we can't eliminate all chances of workplace violence, we can
definitely minimize it in the workplace. When you see behavior changes in an
employee which are warning signs for aggression, address them in a caring and
respectful way. Remind the employee of the expectations your workplace has for
their performance and behavior. Recommend they seek assistance through the EAC.
Document your conversation and follow up to discuss improvement. Consult with
Human Resources, Legal, Security and the EAC if you have further concerns.
Some warning signs that may indicate the potential for threatening or
aggressive behavior are
- Social withdrawal
- Preoccupation with weapons or
violence
- Strong identification or
feelings of self worth from job skills or performance
- Tendency to refuse
responsibility or to blame others for disappointments or failure
- Argumentative behavior toward
others
- Recent personal loss or
stress
- History of violence or abuse
- Past acts of sabotage or
damage to company property or equipment
Costs of Turnover
"Recruiting Trends" magazine estimates that it costs $7K to replace
a salaried worker, $10K to replace a mid-level employee and at least $40K to
replace a senior executive. Should the terminated employee claim discrimination
or sue, the costs could be much higher. Most terminations are due to unresolved
personal or workplace problems. Using your EAC early in the problem to assist
in resolving your employee’s problem is very good business.
Depression in the Workplace
Depression is costing American business $44 billion annually in absenteeism,
direct treatment costs, mortality and productivity loss according to experts at
the National Foundation for Brain Research. Untreated depression is much more
costly than treated depression. By investing in mental health care coverage and
using the EAC you can minimize the cost to the company for this widespread
malady. Some of the symptoms are increased absenteeism and illness, reduced
productivity, difficulty getting along with others, poor concentration and
follow-through, indecisiveness, mistakes and changes in physical appearance or
hygiene.
