The Grief Recovery Institute’s 2003 Grief Index showed that companies lose upwards of $75 billion dollars annually due to the “hidden” costs of grief from low productivity, sick days, accidents and errors due to decreased focus on the job. Those figures are much higher 9 years later.
Standard bereavement policies allow for 3-5 days of bereavement leave. However, the grieving process has only just begun during the first 3-5 days following a loss. The grieving, and resultant decrease in productivity, continues way beyond this.
As a Grief Recovery Specialist, I have some ideas for how your organization can provide support in a way that allows your employees to feel fully supported, leaves a lasting positive impression on not only the bereaved, but also on other staff members — as well as ensures that you retain and engage key contributors and increase “presenteeism” from your grieving employee.
Grief and Your Bottom Line!
GRI study estimates that >$75 billion/year is lost due to impact of grief
What Can You Do?
Provide education about grief and the Grief Recovery Method
- Supervisor and Manager Training – The Manager’s Checklist
- Co-Worker Training – What To Say And Do to Provide Support To Your Peers
- HR Training – The Different Loss Experiences And How To Respond
- “On Call” Grief Counseling
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