What employees want from their employer

What employees want from their workplace has evolved and it can be challenging for companies to keep up when it comes to attracting and retaining top talent. Employers need to understand what employees really want from a company. The 2018 Global Talent Trends study by Mercer revealed the wishlist for many employees when it comes to their place of employment.

The study surveyed 800 business executives and 1,800 HR leaders, as well as 5,000-plus employees across 21 industries and 44 countries. These were some of the results:

Flexibility

More than half of employees said they wished their company offered more flexible work options. Companies that offer employees flexibility in the form of working from home, flexible hours and some personal time off help employees maintain a positive work-life balance. Flexibility has also been shown to reduce workplace stress, boost mental well-being and encourage productivity.

Commitment to health and well-being

The survey found that one in two employees would like to see a greater focus on well-being in their company, including physical, psychological and financial wellness.

There was also a desire for managerial support for their physical and emotional well-being. Investing in standing desks, weekly meditation programmes or even an onsite gym were all ways a company could invest in its employees.

Working with a purpose

The survey found employees would be willing to give up office game rooms if they had fulfilling work and felt connected to their work and their company. Working with a sense of purpose boosts employee motivation, productivity, morale, and overall job satisfaction. According to Mercer, thriving employees are three times more likely to work for a company with a strong sense of purpose.