What is a Supportive Work Environment?

A supportive work environment is a flexible work environment enabling employees to focus on work tasks while at work. By developing programs and policies that give employees as much control over their work lives as possible, both the university and the worker benefit.



What sorts of programs are necessary for a Supportive Work Environment?

Work Practices: flextime, telecommuting, compressed workweeks, stress management, and staff, supervisor, and manager training: disability accomodation; conflict reslolution services.

Leave: vacation, sick and PTO time; voluntary catastrophic leave sharing; sabbaticals; family leave; release time for staff development and training.

Career Assistance: formal and informal mentoring programs; staff development and training; new employee welcome and orientation.

Staff Appreciation: rewards and recognition; mental health services; fitness and wellness programs; finance and retirement counseling; tuition reduction for dependents.

Family Services: access to childcare, caregiving, and eldercare services; health insurance.