Do American workers really know what they want? And do their employers even care?
The answer to both questions is a resounding yes, according to an important new report by Workday, the US-based financial and HR management software firm.
Since the global pandemic and headcount reduction that followed in 2022, companies have been shifting their hiring dynamics into a new gear, pulling their focus away from obsessional growth and towards the practice of attracting the best quality candidates.
It’s clearer than ever that good people are the path to efficiency. This means that when employees talk, firms now know they have to listen.
And what US workers are saying about what they want from their workplace is pretty interesting. The survey returned four key tenets workers would like to see their bosses focus on.
1. Wellbeing matters
First up: health and well-being. It’s no surprise that retained workers are aware they’re carrying a greater workload in the aftermath of mass layoffs and are keener than ever to avoid burnout. Employees want management to keep as tight an eye on worker welfare as it does on productivity gains by a reduced workforce.
2. Hybrid work is just work
Next on the list for US workers is hybrid working. The pandemic taught workers that hybrid work is just work: 87% report that they feel productive in a hybrid work situation. Meanwhile, roughly the same amount of business leaders report feeling a loss of confidence in how well or how hard their teams are working.
The message from workers to their bosses is clear: stop with the productivity paranoia, already. Employees thrive under management that focuses on measured outcomes rather than hours spent in the office.
3. Individual growth for the greater good
Growth and recognition is the third major engagement factor for valuable employees. Even in a competitive jobs market, the most skilled staff need incentives to stay, and research shows that they value opportunities for growth and development. This isn’t just about promotions: great people are interested in upskilling for lateral internal mobility too.
4. Sharing the game plan
Finally, workers are keen to align with firms that offer strategy communication. When an organization’s management team is clear and transparent about a person’s role in the bigger picture, as well as the plan for that big picture, workers get a sense of purpose that safeguards their personal wellbeing. Knowing a path forward and areas for development alleviates stress about the future and reduces self-doubt.
Browse hundreds of jobs with firms which understand the importance of employee engagement at The Hill Jobs, like the three below.
Associate Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office of The Chief Financial Officer, Maryland
The Office of Budget and Planning within the OCFO in Washington is seeking an Associate Deputy Chief Financial Officer, second-in-command to the deputy. You will oversee daily operations in the unit, ensuring timely budget production, managing grants, co-ordinating ERP reporting and supervising core operations. Nine years’ of relevant experience is a prerequisite for this important role, as well as federal or state budget management and financial concept expertise, great communications skills, and an educational background in accounting, economics, business admin or a related finance field. Read more about this role and submit your application now.
Assistant Vice President, Anti-money Laundering Risk, Morgan Stanley, Florida
At Morgan Stanley, the global financial services firm, the Assistant Vice President of Anti-money Laundering Risk will be responsible for assessing money laundering and reputational risks for key clients, and will have oversight of due diligence processes as well as the compliance issues involved. Managing workflows, assessing wealth sources, contributing to money-laundering initiatives and working in partnership with the compliance teams will form the main part of the role. Learn what it’s like to work at a firm that values diversity and strives for an inclusive workforce, and apply directly for this role online at The Hill Jobs.
Director, Special Projects Creative Marketing, Nexstar Broadcasting, Remote
NewsNation, run by Nexstar Broadcasting, is North America’s fastest-growing cable channel. It’s seeking a talented creative with relevant experience to become Director of Special Projects in its Creative Marketing unit. You’ll report to the executive creative director, and should have the combined skillset of a writer, producer, editor and compositor. Your daily tasks will involve overseeing the development of brand messaging for NewsNation, the groups’ 24/7, unbiased, fact-based cable news network. Ideally you’ll bring core skills such as fluency in the Adobe Creative Suite (video, audio, graphic design), animation skills, a relevant degree and the personality to work collaboratively with creative directors, designers and producers across the channel. Learn the details of this multifaceted role here.