Unveiling Insights from the Indeed Global Work Wellbeing Report 2024

Despite efforts to enhance workplace environments, global well-being levels have not returned to pre-pandemic norms and have been on a steady decline over the past four years.

Only 22% of employees report thriving at work, indicating a significant gap in achieving workplace satisfaction and purpose.

The report identifies four critical indicators that define work well-being:

1. Happiness: Only 43% of respondents report being happy at work.

2. Purpose: Nearly half (48%) feel a lack of clear purpose in their roles.

3. Satisfaction: 57% of employees are dissatisfied with their current jobs.

4. Stress: A staggering 59% feel stressed at work most of the time.

These findings highlight a growing need for interventions to address stress and dissatisfaction, fostering environments that promote happiness and purpose.

The research emphasizes that social factors —belonging, inclusion, and energy—are the most influential drivers of work well-being. However, many organizations fall short in these areas:

Belonging: Feeling accepted and supported as one's authentic self boosts engagement and productivity.

Inclusion: Diverse and inclusive environments ensure all voices are heard and valued.

Energy: Employees thrive when inspired, challenged, and immersed in meaningful work.

Despite their importance, these drivers remain underdeveloped globally, with significant gaps in employee experience.

The report also reveals stark differences in work well-being across regions, underscoring the need for tailored approaches:

• Purpose scores highest across regions, while stress lags behind.

• Tailored well-being programs addressing cultural and regional nuances are vital for improving outcomes.

Organizations prioritizing well-being outperform their peers in several key metrics (see Indeed's 2024 Work Wellbeing 100 list):

A simulated portfolio of companies with high Work Wellbeing scores outperformed major stock indices by 11% from 2021 to 2024.

Higher employee well-being correlates with improved firm valuation, return on assets, and gross profits.

Companies with a proactive approach to well-being not only improve employee morale but also achieve tangible financial benefits.

Productivity Boost: Studies have found that happy employees make more calls per hour and achieve higher sales, especially in roles requiring social and emotional intelligence.

Talent Attraction: Job seekers are 80% more likely to apply to companies with high well-being scores, making it easier for these organizations to attract top talent.

Employee Retention: Companies with high work well-being scores experience lower turnover rates, as employees are more satisfied and less inclined to leave.

The report offers actionable insights for fostering a thriving workplace:

1. Measure Wellbeing: Utilize surveys to understand employee needs and benchmark progress.

2. Cultivate Inclusion: Implement practices like removing biased language from job postings and promoting flexible work arrangements.

3. Foster Belonging: Create environments where employees feel valued and supported.

4. Enhance Energy: Design roles that inspire and challenge employees, reducing stressors.

The findings from the Indeed Global Work Wellbeing Report 2024 underline a simple truth: prioritizing employee well-being is no longer optional—it's a business imperative. As stress and dissatisfaction rise, the need for workplaces that inspire, include, and energize has never been greater. By investing in their people, organizations can build resilient teams and drive long-term success.

Let’s work together to create brighter, more fulfilling professional communities.

For more insights and actionable strategies, explore the Thrive at Work services packages. Together, we can redefine the future of work well-being.