Building connections in the workplace remains a challenge for employees despite initiatives from employers, leaving the workforce vulnerable to loneliness.
This is according to a new report from employee experience platform provider Reward Gateway | Edenred, that highlighted a growing crisis of loneliness in workplaces in the United States.
It found that only 47% of employees frequently participate in team-building or social activities organised by their employer, indicating that these measures aren’t engaging the majority of the workforce.
Just 56% of employees also said they are comfortable sharing personal challenges or successes with their colleagues.
“It begs the question – are employers really hitting the mark when it comes to fostering connection?” the report read.
Loneliness at work
These connection challenges come as 39% of Americans report experiencing feelings of loneliness at work, according to the report.
Gen Z (40%) and Millennial (49%) employees are more likely to experience workplace loneliness than their older colleagues, including Gen X (35%) or Baby Boomers/Silent Generation (15%).
The report warned that feelings of loneliness can impact organisations, as 63% of the respondents agreed that workplace friendships significantly contribute to their job satisfaction.
Nearly a quarter (24%) of employees who feel a lack of connections at work also admitted that they have considered moving on from their current job.
Alexandra Powell, Director of Insights at Reward Gateway | Edenred, said their findings indicate that workplace loneliness is a “business dilemma.”
“These results show that employees crave meaningful relationships at work, and when those connections are missing, engagement, and retention suffer,” Powell said in a statement.
“Employers must create intentional opportunities for employees to connect, collaborate, and support one another. Investing in workplace relationships isn’t just good for people, it’s good for business.”
Source – https://www.hcamag.com/us/specialization/employee-engagement/the-cost-of-loneliness-at-work/555407