Employees are finding their compensation, benefits and options for career advancement are less satisfying, according to a new survey by ADP Canada.
The survey, which polled 1,200 Canadian workers, found that, on a scale of one to 10, the average national work happiness score was 6.6, down slightly from 6.7 in May. More than two-fifths (43 per cent) of employees said they feel satisfied with their current role and responsibilities, down from 44 per cent last month.
Among the top indicators of employee happiness, average scores for compensation and benefits (6.1) and options for career advancement (5.9) showed the biggest declines, down from 6.3 and 6.1, respectively. Work-life balance and flexibility (6.8) and recognition and support (6.6) also declined by 0.1 points each.
Read: Survey finds 44% of Canadian employees reporting satisfaction with current role, responsibilities
The survey also found a generational divide in national work happiness scores. While baby boomers reported an average score of 7.3 (up from 7.1), millennials reported an average score of 6.6 (down from 6.8), followed by generation Z (6.5, down from 6.9) and generation X (6.4, down from 6.5).
“The findings from the June index highlight a shift in the overall happiness of Canadian workers across regions and demographics, which is particularly interesting when considering the widespread increases we saw last month,” said Heather Haslam, vice-president of marketing at ADP Canada, in a press release. “The downward trajectory this month may be a reflection of the transition to summer and potentially indicate that Canadian workers are ready to take some time off to recharge.
“It is also important to consider the challenging external environment Canadians are facing today — from the impact of inflation and rising interest rates to wildfires raging across the country, underscoring the close connection between our work life and personal life.”
Read: Gen Z employees reporting decreased happiness at work: survey