WHAT PEOPLE REALLY WANT FROM EMPLOYERS IN 2022

A lot has changed in the last two years, especially when it comes to the kinds of things people want from their employers. Now that 2022 has arrived, many workers are seizing the opportunity to figure out what they really want from their jobs. And let’s be real, it’s not all just about comfy beanbags and free food.

Lots of things that were previously considered perks are now expectations. For example, according to data from employment marketplace SEEK, 69 per cent of employees now see mental health support as essential. On top of that, 57 per cent expect flexible work hours and 54 per cent expect flexibility regarding location.

‘Mental health is everyone’s business’

Sabina Read, a psychologist and SEEK ambassador, says one of the most interesting aspects of workplace management that came with COVID-19 was the fact that everyone now has a shared experience. It’s paved the way for lots of open dialogue between workers and managers, because everyone has had to deal with a mental health challenge in some way – either personally, professionally, or by helping a loved one.

“Regardless of whether you’re working for a small business or a multinational corporation, when you’re employing, managing and leading people, part of your role is to support their mental health,” Read says. “What resources you have to do that might vary, depending on the size of your organisation, but it’s become an expectation. Every employer has the capacity to listen and recognise if someone is struggling.”

Statistically, one in five people will experience a mental health issue in their lifetime. Read says some leaders feel fearful to have this conversation, especially if they lack the solutions or expertise to fix the problem. However, she points out that the goal is not to neatly wrap up the issue, but to facilitate next steps. This ensures employees feel confident bringing their whole self to work, knowing they will be supported.

“I encourage employers and employees to be the change they want to see,” she says. “Mental health is everyone’s business. Even if a workplace culture isn’t quite there, it’s important to do what you can to shift the dial a little bit. Without dialoguing around these issues, things stay the same. People aren’t hesitant to talk about a migraine, or a broken arm, or a sick child. We need to normalise talking about mental health.”

Making hybrid working models effective

Not everyone wants to stay working from home, says Leah Lambart, career coach and founder of Relaunch Me, but there’s no doubt that this will play a big part when it comes to keeping good employees. The hybrid model is a great way to ensure employees feel valued – but if that’s not possible in your business, she says modern employees will still expect more give-and-take over when and how they do their work.

“For parents, that might be clocking off to do the after-school pick-up and then logging back on to do a few hours after dinner,” she says. “Some people are just not morning people and will be more productive later in the day. And lots of people have also enjoyed being fitter – in Melbourne winter, you might go to work and come home in the dark but working from home means you can go for a run while it’s still light.”

It also means more money in employees’ pockets. Working from home a few days a week allows them to save not just on obvious expenses like fuel, tolls, and parking, but things like work wardrobes and eating out as well. It prioritises their well-being and ensures they’re able to work as productively as possible.

“It’s important that employers get clear on their values and what’s important,” she says. “If employees want flexibility, and it’s not met, they’ll be unhappy. It’s important that everyone is clear on what’s negotiable.”

Preparing to take the next big step

Another big change in the workplace will be an increased focus on active learning and development. Many employees have had the opportunity to get clear on their values and what’s most important in their lives.

Petra Zink is a personal branding expert who helps people prepare for the future of work. She also owns a recruitment company and says the number one motivation for talent to join an organisation is because they are looking for learning and development opportunities that will enable them to keep moving forward.

“They’re conscious that a new role can make or break their next role, especially in industries like marketing, digital, and technology where you want to work in the latest languages, tools, and strategies,” she says. “Another trend we’re seeing is people looking for leaders who have a strong online presence and personal brand, because they want to be part of a bigger picture and not just working to make money.”

Comfy beanbags and free food are always good, but nothing will ever match meaningful change when it comes to retaining talent and ensuring you maintain a happy and productive workplace.

 

Source: https://www.news.com.au/sponsored/FCSgAVqaRGkCAoRattjH/what-people-really-want-from-employers-in-2022/