Organisations can achieve higher levels of engagement, productivity and retention by focusing on creating a more ‘human, caring workplace, according to a new report. The report – published by the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) Foundation, the charity affiliate of the world’s largest association devoted to HR, and sponsored by Globoforce, a leading provider of social recognition solutions – suggests that organisations that succeed put their own people first because they recognise their employees are the key to creating long-term value.
The research says that thriving workers are not only more satisfied and productive, but actively engaged in shaping their organisation’s future. Creating a ‘human workplace’ can turn losses stemming from dissatisfaction and disengagement into profits. Recognition is a key element towards building a human workplace. Frequent recognition helps to ‘create a meaningful, more human culture, increase happiness at work and improve engagement and retention’. The report cites numerous company examples about how recognition reinforces company values and has a long-term impact on employees.
Derek Irvine, vice president of strategy and consulting, Globoforce, said:
‘We have spent years researching the impact of recognition and appreciation on employees’ spirits, performance and overall happiness. Our proprietary workplace studies wholeheartedly support the findings from this report: human workplaces are the key to having a successful and thriving organisation.’