Happiness at work takes precedence over money for the majority of people ⁰

More than six in ten workers value happiness at work over salary and even those more motivated by salary agree that a setting that allows friendships to flourish could provide invaluable benefits for businesses, a new survey suggests. The research by Wildgoose found that 57 percent of respondents thought having a best friend in the office made their time at work more enjoyable, almost a third were more productive and over one in five said it boosted their creativity. The survey also highlighted the differences in attitudes across various groups and demographics. Women were far more likely to prioritise happiness, with eight in ten placing it above salary, compared to just 55 percent of males. The job level of an employee also played a significant role. For 85 percent of managers, salary was deemed more important, while 70 percent of entry-level, interns, and executives chose happiness.

The survey also revealed that 82 percent of over 45’s chose workplace happiness over salary while 30 percent of 26-34-year olds come to work to do work first, and worry about team relationships second. This is the highest percentage of any age demographic. In terms of team building, after work drinks were voted the best way of improving worker relationships in the office (37 percent).

Mandy Chase, Office Manager at Wildgoose, said: “The results of the Friends in the Workplace survey highlight just how important the office mood is in daily operations.

“It also indicates that some managers could be missing a trick. The benefits of creating an environment where colleagues are friends far outweighs the effort involved. 11 percent of those surveyed stated they currently don’t have a best friend at work, but would like one.

“Managers who work to help foster these friendships, stand to benefit as their employees are likely to be more productive and creative as a result.”

To find out more about the survey, click here: