Three ways to improve employee satisfaction

As many as 85 percent of companies’ board members believe that investing in the development of organizational culture should be the priority and recognize the importance of this as an integral component of any business strategy. On the other hand, 50 percent of employees consider that the lack of reflection on the development of the organizational culture is an obstacle to the very transformation of the organization. An inclusive organizational culture, following trends, and empowering employees are three key areas that every company needs to focus on to achieve long-term stability, a study recently conducted by German consulting company Horváth reveals. 

A positive employee experience leads to greater engagement, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. Employees who feel appreciated and supported are more likely to advance, which leads to a higher level of performance and better business results. Creating an inclusive organizational culture, trust, and open communication represents the most important segment for the success of a business community. 

“Company culture is what makes a crucial difference in choosing an employer, staff retention, and an image on the labor market. At the same time, it is important to keep in mind that it is developing and transforming in accordance with trends and changes in the company itself. In a time of omnipresent organizational transformation, a company’s culture is the “glue” that keeps employees on the path to a common goal, and gives them a sense of purpose and psychological safety. Also, it is a “recipe” for achieving business performances of companies”, Maria Boldor from Horváth consulting company pointed out. 

The flexibility at work, brought by a global pandemic, led to a change in the understanding of the need for and purpose of traditional corporate offices and spaces. From what used to be separate spaces and sectors, companies today are massively swithching to the so-called “open space” concept, which facilitates the socialization of employees and increases creativity, innovativity, and transparency. Although it is just one segment of adjustment, it is primary for companies to focus on adopting new tools that promote the development of core competencies, for both employees and management, ensuring that they are equipped with skills to successfully navigate the environment of development. 

In addition, to promote sustainable performance in future operations, it is necessary to rethink established ways of thinking, attitudes, and actions across the organization. “The study that we had conducted showed that more than 50 percent of employees see an insufficient awareness of the need for change as a “brake” of transformation. Companies lack focus on the transformation of culture, way of thinking, and behavior of employees, in order to set up new business strategy successfully. Managing changes is the key to a long-term transformation”, Boldor adds. 

With the increasing instability of the business environment, companies can no longer rely on educational institutions to provide them with ideal employees. On the contrary, organizations must be active in the continuous development of employees by creating an environment in which each member of the collective has the opportunity to become a leader. With this move, successful transformation will become the responsibility and goal of every individual, ensuring the company’s success. For mutual satisfaction and mutual interest. 

Considering all of the above, the study concludes that improving the experience of employees becomes a strategic imperative for organizations aiming to advance in a contemporary business environment. By prioritizing employee well-being, nurturing positive culture, offering opportunities for growth, and recognizing achievements, organizations will attract and retain talents, increase productivity, and finally – achieve sustainable success.