SECRET TO HAPPY DAYS IN WORKPLACE

FIND a job you enjoy or try a new perspective. Melanie Burgess reports

EVERYBODY wants to be happy at work but it is not just up to the boss to make that happen.

Workers can boost their own workplace happiness by choosing the right role or considering things in a different light.

Research from recruiter Robert Half reveals employee happiness relies on factors including being in a cohesive team, for which 83 per cent of workers say their job ticks this box.

Having interesting and fulfilling work (66 per cent), feeling a sense of accomplishment (64 per cent), having friends at work (62 per cent), enjoying work/life balance (59 per cent), and learning new skills (50 per cent) also play a part.

Robert Half Asia Pacific senior managing director David Jones says workplace happiness has a concrete effect on business profitability, as it correlates with higher productivity, engagement and innovation.

“(Workers) have higher levels of job satisfaction when they find the work they do to be stimulating, have good working relationships and fit in with the company culture,” he says.

Human resources expert Karen Gately says there are a few easy ways that workers who want to take control of their happiness at work can do so.

STAY ENERGISED

“When drained of energy, we are all entirely more likely to think, feel and act in ways that undermine our success,” she says.

“Start with looking after your body. Adequate sleep, food and water are all essential to maintaining happiness.”

MAKE FRIENDS

“While not everyone is likely to be the type of person you enjoy spending time with, look for those you can relate to and make the effort to connect with them,” Gately says.

ADJUST YOUR ATTITUDE

“Recognise when you are choosing to focus solely on what’s wrong, rather than all of the things you can be grateful for,” she says.

SPEAK UP

Gately says there is no point wallowing in issues without raising them with people who can help change the situation.