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Employee happiness is one of the most critical factors in determining a company’s success. Happy employees are more engaged, more productive, and more likely to stay with a company long-term. Knowing how to increase employee happiness at work is essential for fostering a positive workplace culture that benefits both the employees and the business.
At GoJoe, we’ve seen first-hand how promoting health, wellbeing, and social connectivity through our platform can transform workplace culture. In this blog, we’ll explore what makes employees happy at work and how companies can actively support their happiness to improve both productivity and engagement.
Understanding how to increase employee happiness begins with knowing why it matters. Happy employees are not just more pleasant to work with—they are also more effective. Numerous case studies have shown that happier employees tend to be more productive, creative, and motivated. Additionally, happiness in the workplace is linked to higher retention rates and lower absenteeism, leading to a more stable and engaged workforce. It also means lower costs through reduced sick days and PMI premiums.
The short answer: yes. Research shows that satisfied workers are more productive. Happy employees are more likely to be fully engaged in their tasks, leading to higher performance and a better overall output. This increase in productivity doesn’t just benefit the employees; it creates a ripple effect that positively impacts the entire organisation.
Our 2023 Survey Insight: GoJoe users have reported a 92% increase in positive intent towards their employer after participating in wellness challenges, showing how boosting happiness and wellbeing can directly impact engagement.
Several factors contribute to what makes employees happy at work. These key areas should be the focus of any strategy aimed at increasing employee happiness:
Providing employees with a healthy work-life balance is one of the most effective ways to improve their happiness. Allowing for flexible schedules, remote work options, or even time-off for personal commitments helps employees feel valued and reduces stress. Find work-life balance examples to get some perspective if this is a new topic for you!
GoJoe’s platform supports flexible work environments by offering fitness and wellness challenges that employees can complete anytime, anywhere. This allows them to engage in their well-being journey at their own pace, fostering a better work-life balance.
One of the easiest ways to make workers happy is by recognising their efforts. When employees feel valued and appreciated for their contributions, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated.
GoJoe allows team members to celebrate each other's efforts through in-app recognition features. From social profiles to leaderboards and chat groups, colleagues can keep tabs on each other’s efforts and celebrate successes through awards, fist pumps and comments. It’s always nice to shout out a co-worker, well now you can shine a light on their efforts away from the desk too.
3. Opportunities for Growth and Development
Employees are happier when they feel like they are growing in their careers. Offering continuous learning opportunities, training, and clear career advancement paths helps employees stay motivated and excited about their future.
GoJoe provides employees with personal and team-based wellness challenges that foster growth in both mental and physical health. Achieving wellness goals helps boost confidence, resilience, and happiness in the workplace.
Now that we’ve explored what makes employees happy at work, let’s dive into some actionable strategies on how to increase employee happiness at work. These strategies are designed to improve workplace culture and make a lasting impact on employee satisfaction.
Wellness programmes can have a profound impact on employee happiness. By providing employees with resources to support their mental and physical health, companies show that they care about their well-being. It also lowers the amount of insurance claims filed, because employees are genuinely healthier!
GoJoe’s benefits platform offers engaging challenges and rewards that support all kinds of employees’ physical and mental needs. From mindfulness exercises to fitness challenges, GoJoe provides employees with a well-rounded approach to well-being that promotes happiness and productivity.
Creating a sense of team wellness at work is key to boosting happiness. Employees who feel connected to their colleagues are more likely to enjoy coming to work and contributing to the team.
With GoJoe, 82% of employees reported feeling more socially connected after participating in team-based challenges, proving the positive impact of social engagement on employee happiness.
One of the most effective ways to make workers happy is by giving them autonomy over their tasks and the flexibility to manage their schedules. Trusting employees to manage their own time and responsibilities shows respect for their work and leads to greater job satisfaction.
Physical activity and mental health support are essential for maintaining employee happiness. Regular exercise releases endorphins that improve mood, while mental wellness activities like Mindful Mondays can reduce stress and anxiety.
GoJoe offers over 50 different types of activities, from cycling to padel, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Our Premium option takes this further in partnership with Les Mills with over 350 on-demand virtual workouts with 30% targeted at entry level. By encouraging participation in wellness challenges, GoJoe helps employees feel healthier and happier.
Recognising and rewarding employee efforts is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to increase happiness in the workplace. Whether it’s through formal awards or simple acknowledgment, showing appreciation can significantly boost morale.
GoJoe uses gamification to make wellness challenges fun and rewarding. Employees earn points for participation, and companies can offer prizes for both effort and achievements. This recognition creates a culture of appreciation and motivates employees to stay engaged.
There’s a clear link between happiness and productivity. But how exactly does happiness increase productivity?
Let’s explore a few ways:
Happy employees tend to experience lower stress levels, which means they are less likely to burn out. This helps them stay focused, present, and productive throughout the day.
Employees who are happy at work are naturally more motivated to perform well. Happiness fosters a sense of purpose, encouraging employees to take ownership of their roles and responsibilities.
Happier employees are more engaged in their work. They feel connected to the company’s mission and values, which makes them more willing to go the extra mile to achieve success.
Amazon saw 89% engagement from their employees during a GoJoe fitness challenge, showing how wellness initiatives can motivate employees to stay engaged and productive even during busy periods like Prime Day.
RELATED: 5 Ways Health and Wellness Apps Help Employers and HR
Knowing how to increase employee happiness at work is crucial for building a positive and productive workplace. From offering wellness programmes to fostering a sense of community, companies can create a happier, more engaged workforce by focusing on well-being.
GoJoe’s app offers the perfect solution for companies looking to boost employee happiness through social, physical, and mental well-being. Our app engages employees through fun, inclusive wellness challenges that encourage participation at all levels, while also fostering a sense of community and purpose.
GoJoe’s platform helps create lasting impacts on employee well-being, with 87% of employees reporting improved mental, social, and physical health after participating in our wellness challenges.
Get started today with GoJoe and see how boosting employee happiness can transform your workplace culture!
