Empowering Wellness: Unveiling Schneider Electric’s Well-being Programs

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At Schneider Electric, we understand the pivotal role that employee well-being plays in fostering a thriving, innovative, and sustainable work environment. Our commitment to well-being extends beyond traditional health initiatives to encompass a comprehensive approach built around 6 key pillars. Through programs and support mechanisms, we aim to empower our employees to achieve balance, purpose, and fulfillment in both their professional and personal lives. Join us as we delve into the heart of well-being at Schneider Electric, exploring the foundation of our holistic well-being programs.

Recently, I reached out to our dedicated employees in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan to gain valuable insights into how they are embracing and maximizing our 6 Pillars of well-being. I will cover 3 of the 6 pillars: Physical, Family and Mental well-being. 

Care Leave (Japan, South Korea, Taiwan) 

Introducing our Care Leave program, which is a global leave policy that allows employees to take time off to care for a family member in need. This can include caring for a sick child, spouse, parent, or any other family emergencies.  

Starting in Japan with Rojina Bade, Supply Chain Design and Planning Leader on her experience with Care Leave.  

“I have been with Schneider Electric for about 4 years and recently had to use Care Leave. I had an urgent family emergency that required me to go back to my home country. Being away from work and attending a family emergency can be mentally and physically exhausting. However, I am deeply grateful for Schneider Electric’s unwavering support for my mental well-being and their trust in my ability to tend to my family’s needs during this critical time. It is this culture of care and support that continually inspires me to strive for excellence and deliver optimal results for the company.” 

Heading over to Taiwan, I spoke to Alice Wen, CS&Q Zone Transformation Leader on how she feels about the Care Leave.

“Balancing a regional role with the responsibilities of raising young children can be quite challenging. With Schneider Electric’s Care Leave, I can use this leave to really focus on my family’s well-being. At the beginning of each year, I carefully plan out my family’s calendar for the year, and it’s a tremendous relief knowing that I don’t have to reserve my annual leave for when my family needs me. The flexibility and support provided by the company empowers me to make choices that are best for my family, which also contributes positively to my mental well-being and work performance. For me, having access to Family Care Leave allows me to clearly differentiate between caring for family vs enjoying time with my family!” 

Recreational Clubs (Japan, Korea, Taiwan) 

Schneider Electric offers a variety of recreational clubs and activities for its employees. These may include sports clubs, fitness classes, book clubs, cooking classes, volunteer groups, and more. These recreational clubs provide employees with opportunities to socialize, pursue hobbies, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. 

I had a conversation with Ruby Wu, who serves as the Customer Experience Development Manager and President of Taiwan’s Handicraft Club

“As the President of the Handicraft Club in Taiwan, I have had the pleasure of leading a unique recreational club that goes beyond traditional sports activities. Our club focuses on the joy of handcrafting, from cooking new dishes to pottery making. We try to gather when we can to learn new handicraft skills that bring us joy and allow us to challenge ourselves into trying something new. Serving as president for the past 3 years has been incredibly rewarding, as I’ve witnessed members from different departments mingle outside of their work function. I believe it promotes healthy communication between employees you wouldn’t have the chance to speak to usually.”

Flexible Working Arrangement (Japan, Korea, Taiwan)  

In our post-COVID society, we recognize the importance of flexibility in working arrangements to support all employees. Employees in all three countries have the option to work from home based off their needs.  

Miyuki Ishikawa, Digital Sales Leader in Japan gave her thoughts on how flexible work empowers her. 

“I have been with Schneider Electric for over 11 years now. Prior to COVID-19, we would all go into the office as usual. However, having been with Schneider Electric for over a decade, I have also been able to witness the remarkable adaptability of the company to the changing world. The flexibility in working arrangements, even in the post-COVID era, is truly appreciated. With most Japanese companies requiring employees to come into the office, Schneider Electric prioritizes the needs of their employees. With young children at home, flex work allows me to reduce commute time and carve out more personal time and time for my family. While at home, I can use my lunch break to prepare dinner or even squeeze in a workout at the gym. Schneider Electric’s ability to embrace change and accommodate flexible work setups is a great motivator for me.” 

Blue Sky Friday (South Korea and Taiwan)  

Blue Sky Friday is a fantastic program where employees are encouraged to leave earlier than their designated work hours. This initiative aims to promote a positive and healthy work culture where employees feel empowered to prioritize their personal growth and well-being. 

Let’s hear what Jun Woo Park, a Schneider Graduate Program associate who joined Schneider last August, had to say about Blue Sky Friday. 

“Blue Sky Friday offers a wonderful chance to unwind and de-stress with colleagues before the weekend. At Schneider Electric Korea, our badminton team looks forward to this opportunity for enjoyable Friday afternoon training sessions and matches at a nearby gym. We embrace Blue Sky Friday not only for the chance to prioritize our physical well-being but also to network with colleagues from various departments. As a service engineer, I do not often interact with other departments’ employees. Joining this club has not only allowed me to build internal connections but also provided a great way to alleviate stress before the weekend begins.”

Furthermore, it is inspiring to see the positive impact these initiatives have on our workforce and how they contribute to a healthy, supportive, and engaged environment, ultimately enhancing employee satisfaction and productivity.

Moreover, Schneider Electric prioritizes employee well-being through a multifaceted approach, encompassing physical, mental, and professional aspects, thereby fostering a supportive and holistic work environment. From providing a safe work environment, to promoting work-life balance, and offering wellness programs, as well as continuous learning opportunities, we hope to demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting our employees. 

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