The 3 Things Employees Really Want: Career, Community, Cause

The Evolution of Employee Expectations

In the past, employees were satisfied with a steady paycheck and a comfortable work environment. However, the modern workforce has undergone a significant shift. Today, employees are no longer just looking for a job; they are seeking a sense of purpose, belonging, and personal growth. According to a study by BambooHR, 43% of employees are actively looking for a new job, citing reasons such as a sense of purpose, work-life balance, and opportunities for growth and development.

Career

A Sense of Progress

Employees want to feel like they are making progress in their careers. This includes opportunities for training, mentorship, and clear paths for advancement. A study by Gartner found that 70% of employees believe that opportunities for career growth and development are the most important factors when evaluating a potential employer.

Autonomy and Flexibility

Employees also want the freedom to work independently and make their own decisions. A study by Gallup found that 43% of employees report that they have the freedom to make their own decisions at work, and 44% report that they have some freedom. The remaining 13% have little to no freedom.

A Sense of Accomplishment

Finally, employees want to feel a sense of accomplishment and recognition for their work. A study by Globoforce found that 62% of employees are motivated by recognition, and 45% report that they are not recognized at all.

Community

A Sense of Belonging

Employees want to feel like they are part of a community. This includes a sense of belonging, social connections, and a positive work environment. A study by CultureIQ found that 93% of employees report that a positive work environment is important, and 85% report that it is very important.

Collaboration and Communication

Employees also want to work in an environment that fosters open communication and collaboration. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that 82% of employees report that communication is important, and 74% report that it is very important.

A Sense of Trust

Finally, employees want to trust their colleagues and leaders. A study by Ernst & Young found that 75% of employees trust their leaders, and 63% report that they trust their colleagues.

Cause

A Sense of Purpose

Employees want to feel like they are making a difference and contributing to a larger purpose. A study by Cone/Echo found that 85% of employees report that they are more likely to be loyal to a company that supports a social cause, and 83% report that it is important.

Transparency and Accountability

Employees also want transparency and accountability from their employers. A study by Edelman found that 83% of employees report that they trust their employers to make decisions that benefit the company and the community, and 75% report that they trust their employers to make decisions that benefit the environment.

A Sense of Social Responsibility

Finally, employees want to feel like their employer is taking social responsibility seriously. A study by Cone/Echo found that 73% of employees report that they are more likely to be loyal to a company that takes social responsibility seriously, and 71% report that it is important.

Conclusion

In conclusion, employees want three things: a sense of career progress, a sense of community, and a sense of cause. By understanding and addressing these needs, employers can create a positive and productive work environment that benefits both the employee and the organization. It’s time for employers to rethink their approach to employee engagement and focus on providing a sense of purpose, belonging, and progress for their employees.

FAQs

• What do employees want from their jobs?
  • Employees want a sense of career progress, a sense of community, and a sense of cause.
• What are the most important factors when evaluating a potential employer?
  • Opportunities for career growth and development, autonomy and flexibility, and a sense of accomplishment.
• How can employers create a positive work environment?
  • By providing a sense of belonging, fostering open communication and collaboration, and taking social responsibility seriously.
• What is the most important factor in employee engagement?
  • A sense of purpose and meaning.