Workplace environment improving, say employees

North Americans were happier at work this past year than they've been in more than half a decade.

Employees across the continent feel they have greater control over their future, more support in carrying out their tasks and a better compensation overall.

Over 31,000 employees participated in a survey conducted since 2002 by The Beacon Group. They were evaluated on 12 key workplace issues, including sense of belonging, teamwork, communication, leadership and compensation.

68% of employees said they were satisfied with their workplace in 2007 up from 61% in 2002.

"Workplace satisfaction is becoming an important issue with management at many companies" said Shannon Couch, Vice-President of Product Planning & Development at The Beacon Group. "As retirements soar, companies are understanding that satisfaction equals retention of talent, and that has a direct impact on the bottom line".

2007 also marked a year when North American workers felt they had more control over their careers than ever before. 70% of respondents said they were able to shape their future at work up from 60% in 2002.

Workplace support satisfaction in the form of leadership, training, feedback and recognition also increased steadily with an 9% increase in satisfied respondents up from 70% in 2002 to 61% in 2007.

"Employers are realizing the importance of developing their leaders, providing feedback and most of all recognition in the workplace" said Shannon Couch.

Basic workplace satisfaction also improved significantly in 2007 with 75% of employees saying they were satisfied with teamwork, collaboration and communication, up from 68% in 2002.

Even compensation and career development improved considerably in workplaces across the continent. 62% of employees were satisfied with their compensation and career development at their companies in 2007 compared to 53% in 2002.

"Overall workplace trends are looking healthy," said Shannon Couch. "But there's no guarantee things will stay where they are with looming financial pressures and increased retirement".