Amid staffing challenges, VMLY&R reveals its strategies for maintaining and nurturing employee retention
In a commendable move towards fostering a compassionate and inclusive work environment, global advertising agency VMLY&R has updated its bereavement policies to include leave for employees experiencing pregnancy loss. This shift in policy is a testament to the agency's commitment to a "people-first culture," a term often used by companies within the same industry.
The update was prompted by the personal experience of Jacquie van der Veur, a senior communications manager at VMLY&R, who has faced multiple miscarriages. When she went public with her grief, the agency listened, demonstrating its support for its employees' well-being.
According to industry best practices, such updates in bereavement policies should explicitly recognise pregnancy loss, provide adequate paid leave, ensure flexibility, create a supportive culture, communicate changes clearly, review and adapt regularly, and offer resources for emotional support. While specific details about VMLY&R's implementation of these practices are not extensively documented, the agency's action aligns with these established standards.
The agency consults its employees when deciding on policies and considers the budget second, a practice that has reportedly contributed to a high employee retention rate. This approach extends to the bereavement policy update, with the Employee Resource Group playing a significant role in initiating the change.
The Employee Resource Group, a part of VMLY&R, is a valuable resource for employees, providing a supportive network and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the agency. This group's involvement in the policy update underscores VMLY&R's commitment to prioritising employee well-being.
VMLY&R's update in bereavement policies is a significant step towards acknowledging and supporting employees facing pregnancy loss. By providing a supportive environment and resources, the agency aims to help employees navigate through difficult times, fostering a culture that values and respects the emotional and physical well-being of its workforce.
[1] [Source] [2] [Source]
Science shows that a supportive workplace contributes significantly to the health and wellness of employees, including mental health. Recognizing this, VMLY&R's initiative to update its bereavement policies, advancing health-and-wellness provisions for employees experiencing pregnancy loss, can be seen as a scientifically grounded commitment to workplace wellness. Furthermore, the Employee Resource Group's role in spearheading the policy change underscores the agency's dedication to evidence-based practices that promote a conducive work environment.
