Happy workers are productive workers. Here's how to spread the love

This article was produced in partnership with Indeed.

Happiness – it’s an elusive state but we all strive to get as much of it as we can. Happiness is also at the top of people’s priority lists when searching for a job. Currently a quarter of Australian workers are looking for a new job as they aren’t happy in their current role, according to job posting site Indeed.

The top causes of their unhappiness are being overloaded with work, bad relationships and inadequate communication. Other causes of discontent are stressful deadlines and not being able to switch off from work when at home.

There is no doubt that COVID has had an impact. Around half (43%) of workers say they have higher expectations of what will make them happy in the workplace than they did prior to the pandemic.

And while it’s tempting for an employer to think they are not a joy factory, it’s worth noting that happy employees rarely take time off, are more likely to prioritise their work, are highly productive and engage in problem-solving. In contrast, over half of employees who are unhappy at work say they lack energy and motivation. Other repercussions of unhappiness include burnout (45%), poor mental health (39%), sleep disruption and lower self-esteem.

Amanda Gordon, Indeed psychologist, says inclusion, appreciation, support, trust, purpose, and achievement are the key ingredients for a happy and healthy workforce.

“Employers have so many opportunities to improve happiness in their workplaces and this ultimately starts and ends with good communication,” Gordon says. “Communication in the workplace takes many forms, including providing clear direction and feedback, checking in on staff wellbeing, showing appreciation of good work and acknowledging achievements.”

It’s important for employers to ensure their staff feel seen, heard, cared for and respected as individuals, not just as cogs in a wheel. 

“Treat employees as key stakeholders and be receptive to their needs and wants,” Gordon says. “Importantly, ensure your organisation has policies in place to promote employee wellbeing – whether that’s flexible working arrangements, mental health days or simply regular one-on-one check-ins – as this will have a significant impact on happiness at work.”

Download Indeed’s free whitepaper here.