Have you ever wondered why some companies are consistently recognized as being one of the best places to work? What is it about these organizations that is so desirable? It doesn’t happen by coincidence and it’s not a quick and easy fix, like purchasing a ping pong table or creating a nap room. These businesses work hard at it every day and truly value their employees’ happiness - and it pays off big for them. So, what do employees really want from their employers? Here are three things that continually take the top spots in survey results and research.
The days of the strict 8-to-5 workday are coming to a halt. Employees want some degree of say over when and where they work. The ability to work from home, or a coffee shop, continue to top the list of what workers want. Younger generations, like Millennials and Gen Z, are native to the digital world and believe today’s technology allows for a lot of work to be done outside the office.
In fact, a PwC study found 64 percent of Millennials would like the ability to occasionally work from home, and 66 percent would like flexibility in their work hours. But for this work arrangement to be successful, a culture of trust must exist within your organization.
More than ever, employees want to know their work is meaningful and they have a purpose. In fact, one study found six-in-10 workers would rather ask their boss for more meaningful work than a raise! Unfortunately, in today’s profit- and deadline-driven world, many employees feel like they are simply working for their paycheck, instead of contributing to the greater good of society.
One such way employers increase meaning and purpose in their workplace is by creating a strong company mission. According to Glassdoor, a company’s mission statement details its reason for existence. Further, it gives employees a sense of purpose, motivates them, increases productivity and enhances overall job satisfaction. Research into mission-drive companies has found they have 30 percent higher levels of innovation and 40 percent higher levels of employee retention.
Other steps employers can take include showing recognition, expressing gratitude, sharing client success stories and discussing how your employees’ jobs impact both your business and its customers.
And don’t underestimate the power of doing good. Today’s employees have a strong desire to be associated with socially responsible businesses that place a high value on having a positive impact on society.
More and more studies reveal that employees value a workplace where they can be themselves. A place where their uniqueness is not simply tolerated, but valued. In a culture of belonging, employees feel included and psychologically safe. It is an open, honest environment where workers feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions.
According to LinkedIn, employees in accepting and inviting work cultures tend to be more successful, influential and contribute more to their organizations.
Understanding what employees truly value—purpose, recognition, flexibility, and growth—can transform your company culture and boost retention. Axcet HR Solutions partners with small and mid-sized businesses to design employee relations strategies that align with these expectations, driving engagement and long-term success.
Explore Axcet’s Employee Relations Consulting Services and start building a workplace where employees feel valued and motivated.
Written by
Jeanette Coleman, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is the Director of Human Resources at Axcet HR Solutions, where she has contributed her expertise for over 21 years.
As a leader in the HR industry, she holds advanced certifications as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM-Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). Jeanette oversees HR strategy and operations, ensuring Axcet delivers exceptional HR services that help small and mid-sized businesses stay compliant and grow.
With a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Keller Graduate School and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Kansas State University, Jeanette is well-equipped to lead and support clients in navigating complex HR challenges.
Throughout her 15-year tenure as Director of Human Resources, she has been instrumental in positioning Axcet as the Midwest’s largest and premier Professional Employer Organization (PEO). Her previous roles at Axcet include Director of Employee Benefits and Senior HR Consultant, where she gained extensive experience in HR outsourcing, payroll administration, and employee risk management.
Jeanette’s leadership reflects her deep commitment to helping businesses thrive through strategic, compliance-driven HR solutions. Through her writing, she shares insights on HR strategy, compliance, and best practices to help employers confidently manage their workforce.
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