Robert Walters polled 1,700 individuals and found 'biggest barrier is communication'
A recent poll conducted by international recruitment firm Robert Walters has revealed a concerning trend among Canadian professionals, with 70 percent saying they are concerned about workplace psychological health and safety and are increasingly feeling a shortfall in the support provided by their employers for workplace wellbeing.
The findings, based on a survey of over 1,700 professionals, suggest that Canadian employees are becoming more vocal about their expectations regarding workplace wellbeing. "In recent years, we have observed a shift in responsibility,” explains Martin Fox, managing director of Robert Walters Canada. “The question is no longer 'what can I do for a company?' Instead, professionals are starting to ask 'how can my company help me?”
Megan Gallagher, senior consultant and mental health aide at Robert Walters, says there is a lack of communication between employers and employees. "The biggest barrier right now is communication,” she claims. “Employers are putting the time and effort to enhance the benefits they have to offer, but maybe employees are not actually realizing the resources they have at their fingertips."
Despite efforts by Canadian employers to invest more in wellness benefits, with 64% planning to increase investment in 2024, only 15% of professionals feel that workplace wellbeing has become a priority for their employers.
Gallagher highlights the concept of "wellbeing washing," where companies outwardly showcase support for mental health causes but fail to actively improve employee wellbeing. She stresses the importance of genuine efforts, saying, "it's not just about trying to make it look like you're doing something but then really are not... showcasing to your employees that you really do care and you're actually advocating for [wellbeing]."
Flexibility emerges as a crucial factor in addressing employee wellbeing concerns. Gallagher says, "the biggest thing is its flexibility... being able to have the work-life balance is key." This sentiment resonates with the poll findings, where 86% of professionals stated their personal wellbeing has become their top priority. However, Gallagher emphasizes that true flexibility goes beyond remote work, highlighting the importance of creating a supportive and collaborative work environment.
The poll survey results highlight the urgent need for Canadian employers to bridge the gap between their efforts and employees' expectations regarding workplace wellbeing. As professionals prioritize their wellbeing, employers must prioritize effective communication, genuine support, and flexible work arrangements to foster a healthier and more productive workforce.
