Flexible arrangements and staff wellbeing outscore perks and money

New research shows perks and money are not the most sought after conditions at work. See what else workers want.

The Great Resignation has resulted in many workers questioning whether they could do better elsewhere, but those with the freedom to work where they want and when they want can breathe easy knowing their workplace is most likely among the best there is.

Research into Australia’s greatest workplaces reveal flexible, hybrid work arrangements top the list of what employees want, along with a strong focus on staff wellbeing.

“A lot of employees do wonder (about opportunities elsewhere) but the grass isn’t always greener,” says Randstad executive general manager Angela Anasis.

Randstad executive general manager Angela Anasis. Picture: Supplied

“Make sure you check out (what other companies are offering), speak to other employees and have a look at what their (workplace) stories are.

“In many places, there is a bit of a disconnect with what employees are really wanting, particularly when it comes to work-life balance, and what’s on offer.’’

FALLING SHORT

Randstad recently released its list of top 10 most sought-after employers, with the top spot taken by G8 Education in recognition of its strong financial health and commitment to job security and career progression.

But while Randstad’s research reveals almost two in three Aussies highly value work-life balance, a third of workers say they are not getting this at their current employer.

“It’s more than just salary (that employees want) now,” Anasis says.

“Australian workers have reset their priorities following the pandemic and striking a balance between their work and personal lives is no longer a nice to have, it’s an essential.

“Candidates are calling the shots and what’s coming out of the research is that they are willing to move roles if they’re needs are not being met.”

TIME FOR ME

Emerald Williamson, who started a new job during the pandemic, agrees priorities have shifted.

Working for Cisco, which was recently named one of Great Place to Work’s best Australian workplaces, Williamson was thrust into remote work and, having experienced the benefits, is now unlikely to return to the office full time.

“It makes it easier if I can work from home … and readjust the way I work to help my family out when I need to,” says the account manager, who appreciates Cisco’s commitment to hybrid work and its quarterly ‘A Day for Me’ initiative, a company-wide day off for workers to put themselves first.

Emerald Williamson was thrust into remote work and, having experienced the benefits, is now unlikely to return to the office full-time.

In the early stages of her career, Williamson says having a supportive and nurturing workplace is also important.

“The one thing that really stands out for me is the culture and the people,” she says.

“Cisco are really blessed to have a lot of people who are very passionate and very interested in supporting and developing others.”

FANCY PERKS NOT ENOUGH

Great Place to Work Australia managing director Roland Wee says great workplaces provide much more than lavish perks and amazing benefits.

“At its core, a great workplace is about the level of trust that employees experience in their leaders, the level of pride they have in their jobs, and the extent to which they enjoy their colleagues,” Wee says.

“The best employers are proactively offering flexible, hybrid work arrangements for their employees.

“They are focusing on wellness beyond the physical – providing benefits that support their employees’ total wellbeing (including) mental, emotional and physiological.

“Many organisations offer employees a positive experience on occasion – but it’s (companies awarded) Australia’s Best Workplaces whose employees are reporting they consistently feel that way.”

While flexibility and wellbeing are the biggest themes from the 2022 Best Workplaces in Australia list, Wee says everyone has different values and recommends workers establish a checklist of what is important to them.

He also suggests workers compare what’s offered by other employers to see how their workplace compares.

“If your needs aren’t being met, you can speak up to your employer and discuss what it is you’re looking to get out of your work,’” he says.

HOW DOES YOUR WORKPLACE RATE?

The four key elements that symbolise a great workplace:

• Inclusivity: Is your employer focused on ensuring every worker feels included and can bring their true, full and best self to work – or are employees bringing a version of themselves to the workplace?

• Deep listening: Does your company support workers through various listening sessions to better understand them. Do they ask questions, such as What is your story? and What more can we do? Do they follow-up worker feedback?

• Care and empathy: Is your organisation focusing on your whole wellbeing – your personal life, family life and life in the community? Does it extend health insurance, offer training and development, and provide support and care during changing business times?

• Sense of purpose: Does your employer connect its mission with employees’ jobs so that every worker is proud of their company’s reputation, values and standing in the community?

Source: Great Place to Work Australia