Understanding and Addressing Presenteeism to Enhance Business Performance

The cost of presenteeism for companies

The costs of presenteeism are manifold, affecting many aspects of the business. Research suggests that presenteeism can cost companies up to two to three times more than direct absenteeism.

These costs take the form of lower productivity, reduced quality of work, increased errors and the spread of illness within the team, impacting the whole organization.

Services d'Électro-Thérapie (SET) has addressed this issue by carrying out a systematic review of 16 studies, concluding that the financial losses due to this problem are not negligible for companies.

Based on this research, we have developed a tool to assess the cost in time and money that presenteeism can represent for a company, providing a tangible basis for strategic human resources management decisions. 

The challenge of measuring presenteeism

One of the greatest challenges of presenteeism lies in its difficult-to-detect and quantify nature. Symptoms of reduced productivity can be attributed to a multitude of factors, making the diagnosis of presenteeism particularly complex.

Presenteeism can manifest itself in many different ways. Some employees may come to work even when they're ill and can't concentrate effectively, while others may work long overtime hours without taking adequate breaks, which can lead to reduced productivity and even long-term injury.. 

Presenteeism can also be fuelled by a corporate culture that values over-commitment, perfectionism and fear of the negative consequences associated with absenteeism.

Employees may feel pressured to come to work even if they are ill or need time to rest and recuperate. This pressure can come from management, peers or even employees themselves, who may fear appearing less dedicated and competent.

Whatever form it takes, presenteeism can have a detrimental effect on overall company performance.

Services d’Électro-Thérapie's Solution

With more than one in four Canadians affected by aches and pains, it's not surprising that presenteeism, often linked to physical health problems, represents a major challenge for companies.

This reality underlines the urgency of adopting proactive approaches to manage and minimize the impact of presenteeism on productivity and general well-being at work.

With this in mind, SET introduces innovative solutions designed to support companies in the fight against presenteeism associated with physical pain.

Aware of the perverse effects of this problem on performance and the atmosphere within organizations, we have developed a specific training program.

The aim is to equip companies with the knowledge and tools they need to identify, quantify and, ultimately, reduce pain-related presenteeism among their employees.

Our training program addresses in detail the mechanisms by which presenteeism affects both individuals and work collectives, and proposes concrete strategies to remedy it.

Drawing on evidence-based data and case studies, this course offers an in-depth perspective on the direct and indirect costs of presenteeism, while highlighting practical solutions for improving employee health and productivity.

Our team then works closely with HR departments to implement customized programs, tailored to the specific needs of each company. By integrating our services, companies can not only improve productivity but also enhance employee engagement and satisfaction, creating a healthier, more successful workplace.

In conclusion, presenteeism represents a substantial cost for companies, both in financial and human terms. By adopting proactive solutions and supporting employee health and well-being, managers and HR professionals can turn this challenge into an opportunity.

It is crucial that companies recognize the detrimental impact of presenteeism and commit to cultivating a wellness-focused work environment, where rest and recuperation are valued and encouraged, to the benefit of employees' overall health and the company's success.

SET is your partner in this approach, offering research-based solutions customized to meet your organization's needs.

To find out how we help professionals in your situation to develop an effective strategy against presenteeism, focusing on employee health and well-being through our electrotherapy solutions, please feel free to schedule an appointment with our team.

Together, let's explore ways to reduce the impact of presenteeism in your business and improve overall productivity. Schedule your call today!