Oz leads in pandemic work strategies but talent loss still a threat

Australian workplaces are emerging from COVID-19 as world leaders in work strategies and connecting with their employees throughout the pandemic, a new study from employee experience software company Limeade shows.

But findings show that despite these efforts, employers must rapidly address their employee experience to prevent a talent exodus.

Limeade research arm Limeade Institute surveyed more than 4,500 employees worldwide and found that Australian employees reported the highest levels of workplace engagement in the world (76%). 

On the other hand, workers in Australia have also had the highest levels of burnout (45%) among leading economies, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany.

Also, the research showed that 70% of Australian employees intend to stay at their current place of work for three or more years. However, Australia holds the highest percentage of employees who said, if given the option, they would leave their current job for one with a better employee experience (42%).

Henry Albrecht, founder and CEO of Limeade, said this disconnect is a strong indicator that employees are managing their current working conditions but are working beyond a sustainable capacity to meet demands.

“Now is the time for workplaces to take on the role of culture architect, listening to feedback and investing in an employee experience that supports employees in both the big and small moments at work,” said Albrecht.

“For large organizations, this can’t be done without technology that reaches every employee, listens to them and delivers the activities, resources and programs needed to thrive at work,” he added. “Ultimately, employees want to know their company cares.”

Still, almost 72% of Australian employees said the employee experience in their organisation is a positive one, and over half felt supported by managers and leaders in improving well-being. 

Almost 70% of Australian employees said that their organisation had asked for feedback regarding return-to-work policies or procedures, far more than in other countries, with the next highest country being the United Kingdom at less than 40%.

“Supporting staff reintegrating into a physical environment with new employee experience initiatives and tools designed specifically to help cultivate your desired workplace experience is key,” said Albrecht. “Leaders and managers must be trained to support this approach, and individuals should be empowered to take ownership of their personal well-being along the way.”