Four practical insights to make sustainable
employability a success
Blog by
Fred van der Horst
Sustainable employability is more than just an HR trend; it is a necessity for organizations that want to keep their employees healthy, motivated, and productive. But how can you ensure that vitality and job satisfaction become an integral part of your work culture?
In this Q&A session, colleague Fred van der Horst highlights the practical side and insights for successfully implementing sustainable employability. All answers are compiled in a handy whitepaper.
What are the key elements of an effective vitality or sustainable employability program?
A successful program focuses on three crucial pillars:
- Physical health & wellbeing: An energetic and vital body is the foundation for productive and enjoyable work. Think sufficient exercise, healthy nutrition, and an ergonomic workspace.
- Mental resilience & job satisfaction: Employees who are mentally balanced perform better and experience more happiness at work. This requires attention to stress management, a positive work culture, and room for personal growth.
- Career development & employability: Lifelong learning and development ensure employees remain agile in a changing job market. This can be done through training, coaching, or strategic career conversations.
How can we integrate sustainable employability into daily work without it feeling like an extra burden?
Sustainable employability works best when it is a natural part of the work culture. This can be done by:
- Leaders as role models: Managers who pay attention to the vitality and growth of their team create a work atmosphere in which employees feel valued and supported.
- Flexibility in work hours and tasks: By giving employees control over their work arrangements, there is more balance between work and private life, reducing stress and increasing motivation.
- A healthy and safe work environment: Ergonomic workspaces, sufficient light, and fresh air contribute to physical wellbeing.
- Making healthy choices accessible: Healthy food, sports facilities, or walking meetings encourage an active lifestyle without extra effort for employees.
By seeing vitality not as an ‘extra’, but as an integral part of the way of working, it becomes natural and achievable for everyone.
Which programs or tools can we use to promote sustainable employability and vitality?
An effective program combines different tools to support employees physically and mentally:
- Preventive Medical Examination (PMO): This provides insight into employees’ health and vitality and gives concrete advice to remain sustainably employable.
- Coaching and health apps: A combination of personal coaching and digital tools helps employees work on their mental and physical health in a way that suits them.
- Tailored career conversations: By discussing career development and job roles in relation to life stages, a sustainable and motivating work relationship is created, with a future-oriented approach.
How can we reduce work pressure and prevent burnout?
High work pressure does not automatically lead to absenteeism, as long as there is attention to balance and prevention:
- Focus on core tasks and efficiency: Clear priorities, smart work processes, and a clear division of tasks help reduce unnecessary workload.
- Create a healthy work structure: Regular short breaks, discouraging overtime, and flexible working hours provide moments for recovery and create a more sustainable workload.
- Support for work-related stress: Coaching, mindfulness, and stress management training help employees cope better with pressure and expectations.
By approaching sustainable employability this way, we create a work environment where employees stay healthy, motivated, and productive—now and in the future.
Fred van der Horst
Career Advisor
As a career advisor, I greatly enjoy bringing out the best in people. For me, it is a challenge to make people aware of their talents. My goal is to get to the core where necessary, always in a relaxed atmosphere.
