Do Healthy Workplaces Matter to Employees?

Abstract: 

This article discusses the challenges of returning to the workplace post-pandemic and argues for the creation of healthy workplaces.

Key points:

  1. Context: High rates of employee resignations and increased demands for health, safety, and well-being guarantees from employers.
  2. Reasons for quitting: Commute, loss of autonomy, poor organizational culture, job strain, and inequitable treatment.
  3. Changing expectations: Led by millennials, employees across generations are seeking better work-life balance and more fulfilling work experiences.
  4. Need for change: Employers must reconsider what makes employees want to return to the workplace, especially with hybrid work options available.
  5. Human motivation: The article argues for reintegrating human motivation into business success equations, focusing on creating environments where employees can and want to do their best work.
  6. Healthy workplace elements:
    • Physical: Fresh air, noise reduction, ergonomic furnishings, biophilic design
    • Behavioral: Fair processes, human-centered technology, well-designed jobs
  7. Benefits of healthy workplaces:
    • For employees: Addresses past workplace issues, promotes well-being
    • For employers: Increases productivity, provides competitive advantage
    • For prospective employees: Demonstrates employer values

Investing in healthy workplaces is beneficial for all parties involved and can provide a significant competitive advantage for businesses in attracting and retaining talent.

Publication date: 
September 21, 2021
Publication type: 
Article