Employee culture of health perceptions and the development of a training intervention

Purpose The authors used a case study approach to explore employees' perceptions of one institution's culture of health. The authors then applied a needs-centered training model to create and test the effectiveness of a workplace wellness training program to improve the culture of health. Design/methodology/approach For study 1, the authors recruited 736 faculty and staff from an institution of higher education to complete an online culture of health survey measuring their perceived leadership support, peer support and institutional resources. In study 2, participants (n = 60) in follow-up focus groups described their experiences related to the culture of health at the institution. For study 3, university employees (n = 44) participated in the training intervention and reported on post-test outcomes measuring the training's effectiveness. Findings High levels of employee stress and lack of supervisor and coworker support were identified as significant issues in the needs assessment process. Therefore, the authors developed a needs-centered training intervention that focused on supportive and confirming supervisor and peer communication. Results suggest employees perceive the training to be effective, are ready to change their behaviors and are knowledgeable about the training content. Originality/value This study provides evidence regarding needs-based trainings focused on co-worker communication and how these trainings may incrementally improve the culture of health within organizations. Accordingly, the authors offer best practices, including the value of focusing on employee needs, advocating for employees, building community through trainings and enacting change through the training process.