87% believe that employee wellbeing is a human right
A new survey from First Onsite Property Restoration revealed that post-pandemic, individuals are seeking more intrinsic value and a greater sense of purpose in their work. The report gathered insights from over 1,500 Canadian adults about their perspectives on the evolving workplace.
87% of Canadians considered employee wellbeing a human right, with women (92%) showing a higher inclination towards this belief compared to men (82%).
The survey also found that 75% of Canadians believed hybrid working arrangements were likely to remain a permanent feature. Women (81%) showed stronger confidence in this aspect than men (70%).
Additionally, 75% of respondents expressed their preference for working in an industry that allows them to help others. Half of Canadians (48%) expressed a greater desire for a sense of purpose in their work compared to pre-pandemic times. 41% of Canadians reported feeling limited in options for purposeful employment.
23% of Canadians, particularly those aged 18-34 (34%), revealed plans to change jobs or quit in 2023, while this sentiment was less prevalent in those aged 35-54 (19%) and those aged 55+ (13%).
“A few things are clear from our survey. Many Canadian employees are concerned about finding meaning in what they do for work,” said Brian Hughes, vice president of human resources at First Onsite Property Restoration.
“It’s increasingly important for HR leaders to focus on individual wellbeing and ensuring employees and managers are in the right resilient headspace. As the world and businesses change, workforces need ways to deal with high stress situations and evolve to be adaptable and effective.”
Addressing the survey's implications, Hughes emphasized the importance of creating psychological safety in the workplace. This fosters a confident and engaged workforce, encouraging employees to share their thoughts and ideas, leading to greater utilization of their skills and knowledge.
“If there is one thing the pandemic has taught us, it is the human desire to live more meaningful and enriched lives,” said Hughes.
“It is about finding the why in everything – from work life to personal life. This goes beyond traditional salary and benefits and includes helping employees learn to find their purpose, which in the long run, creates stronger organizations and bolsters employee retention,” he said.
