What Matters Most to Employees in the Workplace?

Chris Freitas • Aug 29, 2023

Understanding what truly matters to employees is crucial for creating a positive and productive work environment. The specifics may vary between industries, but several key factors consistently emerge as the most important predictors of an employee's happiness and productivity. In this blog, we’ll explore what matters most to employees in the workplace. 

 

1. Feeling Respected 

The foundation of a thriving workplace culture rests on respect. Research has shown that feeling respected at work is the single best predictor of employee satisfaction with their company culture. 

The language employees use to describe disrespect underscores its profound impact. Employees describe feeling demeaned, degraded, or like cogs in a machine. The kind of treatment that leads to this self-perception erodes morale and job satisfaction. In industries with a large number of public-facing employees, such as salespeople, agents, and customer service representatives, respect is even more critical. 

Respect isn't just about avoiding negative behaviors; it also involves actively recognizing and appreciating employees' contributions. When employees feel valued and respected, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their roles. Employers can enhance employee satisfaction significantly by acknowledging their feelings, giving them the floor to speak when they want it, and treating them as the valued professionals they are. People rise to their roles, given the opportunity. 

 

2. Receiving Employee Benefits 

Employee benefits play a pivotal role in employee satisfaction and happiness. When it comes to predicting a company's culture score, benefits are more than twice as important as compensation. These benefits most often include health insurance, retirement plans, wellness programs, and other perks. 

Health insurance and benefits are particularly significant predictors of employee satisfaction. With the escalating costs of healthcare, employees greatly appreciate not having to worry about this essential aspect of their well-being. This sense of security and gratitude translates into increased commitment and productivity at work. Employers who provide comprehensive benefits packages signal to their employees that they genuinely care about their welfare. 

KBI Benefits has helped dozens of companies improve their employees’ wellbeing and productivity with employee benefits plans that suit their budgets. Speak with a KBI Benefits agent today to discover how you could offer comprehensive employee benefits at a 30% discount compared to our competitors. 

 

3. Learning and Development 

In today's rapidly changing job market, employees highly value opportunities for learning and development. 

Employees in companies that prioritize learning and development initiatives are more engaged and motivated. Programs that incentivize additional education, such as tuition reimbursement for relevant classes and mentorship opportunities with senior executives, not only support the employee’s growth, but the company reaps the benefits of their improved skills as well. 

Whether employees seek career advancement within their current roles or aspire to pivot into new ones, learning and development opportunities are essential for personal and professional growth. Companies that invest in their employees' continuous learning demonstrate a commitment to their long-term success. 

 

4. KBI Benefits Builds Company Culture 

If you're looking to enhance your company's relationship with its employees, action speaks louder than words. Providing a robust employee benefits plan can be a game-changer. It shows your commitment to employee well-being and significantly boosts job satisfaction. KBI Benefits, with its comprehensive benefits plans, can help you create a workplace culture where employees feel respected, supported, and valued. Speak with a KBI Benefits representative today to discover how affordable employee benefits can help your employees and your company thrive. 


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