Flexibile-first culture that drives performance

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Small Business Award | Netsafe

The Wayfinder Small Business Award recognises businesses of 100 people or less that demonstrates commitment to the health and wellbeing of its people – using it as a core business strategy and thriving because of it. Embracing a people-first approach, they create a healthier workplace and drive tangible positive change in the lives of their people.

Action: The health and wellbeing of their people is central to Netsafe’s mission, values and one of their first five strategic priorities. To improve wellbeing and performance, a flexible-first policy and a four-day work week was introduced to allow employees to choose their hours and work location.

Need: Netsafe operates in a high pressure, high-stress environment. The leadership team is well aware of the mental health impact of this work and the need for better health and wellbeing programmes to support their people.

Challenges: Their transformation journey saw them overcome several obstacles. Investing in tools that foster greater collaboration, leading effectively under the new model meant adapting approaches, cultural alignment to shift long-standing behaviours and mindsets and careful prioritisation to ensure the right levels of resourcing.

Impact: Independent research revealed a profoundly positive impact. Employee satisfaction, motivation, eNPS, retention, productivity, customer satisfaction and overall organisation success have all seen substantial gains.

How their flexible-first policy is driving performance

Netsafe is New Zealand’s independent, non-profit online safety organisation. Embracing a technology-positive approach, Netsafe aims to help New Zealanders take advantage of the digital opportunities available while managing online challenges. They do this by providing practical tools, support, and advice.  

Netsafe is a charitable organisation operating in a high pressure, high-stress environment, which involves constantly reviewing disturbing, harmful or traumatic content. The leadership team is well aware of the mental health impact of this work and the need for better wellness programmes including mental health support, time off for recovery and skills development.

Their flexible-first work arrangement allows employees to choose their hours and work location – which helps people balance work with personal commitments. In 2023, Netsafe launched a four-day work week, allowing staff to work 80% of their hours for 100% pay, and they’ve maintained productivity. This extra day, known as the “gift of the 5th,” is encouraged to be used for personal or professional growth, which has been described as life-changing by many team members.   

“Netsafe has demonstrated that employee wellbeing and organisational success are not competing priorities but can be mutually reinforcing elements. It's great to see a company working closely with staff to innovate for wellbeing and productivity. One Netsafe staff member said of their wellbeing initiatives, “These changes have fuelled our high performance, reshaped our workplace, and made the last few years the most fulfilling of my career”. This is wellbeing driving performance and success.” - Executive Judge Dr Denise Quinlan

Netsafe's experience is that creating a healthy, more resilient work environment offers a competitive edge for attracting and retaining talent. There's a strong link between employee wellbeing and achieving organisational goals.   


Key highlights contributing to their gold award:  

  • Demand has grown 25% year-on-year for services, but employees have improved productivity to enjoy the benefit of a 4-day work week  
  • Prioritising wellbeing has led to higher job satisfaction, engagement soaring and reduced employee attrition
  • Offering a comprehensive wellbeing program that includes health insurance cover with Southern Cross Health Insurance helps Netsafe stand out in a competitive job market, attracting high calibre candidates  
  • A balanced workforce is better equipped to think creatively, collaborate effectively, and innovate  
  • Focusing on wellbeing fosters a positive culture where employees feel connected and empowered, enhancing teamwork and communication  
  • Supporting holistic employee wellbeing builds sustainable practices, driving long-term success – they’ve increased revenue, significantly impacting online safety, despite competing with larger organisations.  

“Netsafe has generated significant business improvements through its commitment to the health and wellbeing of their people. Wellbeing is fundamental to who they are.” -  Nick Astwick, Southern Cross Health Society CEO & Judging Convenor

Netsafe subsidises the Southern Cross Health Insurance Wellbeing One plan plus Keeping Well Module for its employees.

For tangible results – like higher productivity, stronger engagement, and happier teams – request a callback today to learn how your organisation can lead the way too.

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