Happy workers hopping to it
THE right balance of challenge and reward is the key to a happy workforce.
Employees in positions of low stress and high fulfilment and with control over their own work are most satisfied – and employers who offer these conditions are able to reap the rewards of worker loyalty and productivity.
Research by recruitment consultancy Robert Half reveals the happiest employees are those in marketing and creative fields, those in management positions, those in the first two years of their role, and those aged 55 or older.
It also finds Australians are among the least stressed workers in the world, ranking better than all but one of the seven countries surveyed.
Only the Netherlands ranked higher. Germany ranked lowest.
Australians came in last, however, for interest in their work – beaten by Germany, the Netherlands, the United States, Belgium, France, Canada, and the UK, in that order.
Robert Half Asia Pacific senior managing director David Jones says employee happiness is closely connected to organisational innovation.
“Happy employees are typically more engaged and driven to succeed, creating a positive and high-performing work environment,” he says
“By taking the time to offer feedback and show sincere signs of appreciation, employers can increase employee engagement and satisfaction, leading to higher levels of happiness in the workplace.”
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo keeper Emily De Palo is in charge of looking after the zoo’s new yellow-footed rock wallaby, Millie, and says her job makes her happy.
She says it is not too stressful and she finds fulfilment in seeing all the animals thrive.
“I love this job,” she says. “Ever since I can remember, I wanted to be a zookeeper.
“I am here for the animals and love seeing them thrive.”