1 in 3 adults unhappy in current job, claims survey
A study of 2,000 workers found 32 per cent feel unhappy in their current job and 18 per cent are dissatisfied with their quality of life at work.
Over the last 12 months, 64 per cent of the employees polled were based at home, resulting in 61 per cent of them working outside of their normal hours. And 40 per cent had to juggle caring for a child or family member at the same time.
Overall, job satisfaction has decreased by 35 per cent in the past year, but 24 per cent said their relationships with co-workers had improved. In the year ahead, 17 per cent admitted they will need help in adjusting to returning to the office, while 25 per cent want more assistance in managing their mental wellbeing.
The study also found employees typically worked an additional seven hours a week this year – four of those paid and three unpaid. But 25 per cent are worried about keeping their job while 27 per cent aren’t happy with their work-life balance.
Another 16 per cent have concerns about their wages.
Despite the fears, 63 per cent felt they have received as much support as can be expected from their employer given the tough circumstances. This has led to 30 per cent now being more likely to stay working for the company, while a quarter are happier to go the extra mile.
Top areas in which organisations have taken steps to support employees through the pandemic were revealed as flexible working hours (28 per cent) and mental wellbeing (26 per cent).
Says Alisdair Seenan, HR Director at employee benefits specialist Edenred, which commissioned the study:
“For many, the last twelve months have been hard, both personally and professionally. There have been a lot more challenges which have impacted people’s work-life balance and how they feel about their job as a result
“Mental wellbeing is a key topic for people this year, due to the big changes in routine and daily working life. It’s important for employers to know where staff need more support in order to retain employees.”
