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Disparities deepen in latest Workplace Happiness survey

A global study of 300,000 individuals in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the US, and the UK for 2023 reveals workplace trends and concerns. Generation Z, impacted by the pandemic, sees declining engagement and increasing “fight risk.” Concerns over pay and a gap between employee expectations and what employers can offer are prevalent. Employers are introducing mentoring to bridge skills gaps. Inclusive cultures and practices are vital for employee motivation. Different countries have unique challenges: the UK lags in engagement and faces a high flight risk for disabled employees, while the USA outperforms in engagement. Ireland and Australia have their own inclusion challenges, and New Zealand shows high job satisfaction. Gender and disability gaps persist, highlighting the need for better support.

From the original article written by Ruth Holmes and published in the Relocate Global magazine:

‘Demographic power balance shifting’

A comprehensive study of 300,000 individuals across Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the US, and UK sheds light on global workplace sentiments throughout 2023.

Concerns over pay remain consistent, particularly among Generation Z, amidst global inflation and cost of living challenges. WorkL research highlights declining engagement among this demographic, with certain groups, particularly individuals with disabilities, facing increased flight risks.

Employers are adapting, with mentoring programs on the rise to support Generation Z’s integration into the workforce. Journalist Kamal Ahmed underscores the unique challenges faced by the “Covid Generation.”

Recognizing these shifts is crucial for employers navigating recruitment and engagement hurdles. The forthcoming Think Global People & Relocate Awards aim to celebrate organizations effectively aligning employee needs with strategic objectives.

Global perspectives on recruitment, retention and engagement

The WorkL Global Workforce Report 2024 emphasizes inclusivity as a cornerstone of workplace success. Across various regions, fostering belonging and happiness emerges as a key motivator for employees.

In the UK, concerns over pay and recruitment gaps persist. Disabled employees face heightened flight risks, prompting calls for a reevaluation of workplace disability policies from cross-bench peer Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson.

In Ireland, LGBTQ+ individuals exhibit elevated flight risks, echoing trends observed in the UK. Similarly, disabled employees face higher-than-average flight risks in both Ireland and Australia.

Meanwhile, the US boasts strong engagement scores, buoyed by robust economic performance. In Australia, concerns over employee wellbeing and flight risks among disabled employees persist.

New Zealand stands out with high job satisfaction and empowerment levels, particularly among older demographics.

Gender disparities persist, with women facing higher wellbeing risks and dissatisfaction levels. Justine Roberts of Mumsnet and Gransnet underscores the importance of flexibility and enhanced paternity leave policies in addressing these gaps.

Individuals with disabilities report dissatisfaction and elevated flight risks, highlighting ongoing barriers and the need for improved inclusion practices.

Lord Mark Price, WorkL founder, emphasizes the imperative for employers to support minority employees better, particularly individuals with disabilities. The report underscores the importance of understanding and addressing workforce dynamics to foster a more inclusive and motivated workforce.

Read the original article in full: Gaps widen in latest workplace happiness index