Humans have always been social creatures. The bonds that we’ve created are key to our success. It should be no surprise then that these bonds are also key to success at work.
Compass Group’s new report, Socialisation : The Power of Socialisation reveals that sociable workplaces are important for employee satisfaction, productivity and loyalty. Over 30,000 students and workers from 21 countries were surveyed to determine the impact of socialisation in the workplace on employee satisfaction and engagement.
The report found that employees who enjoy their work environment are happier and more engaged. Respondents who reported that their workplace was enjoyable also had high levels of job satisfaction. This dropped to only 22 percent among those without a pleasant environment. Social connections at the workplace are essential. 27 percent of employees feel lonely or isolated and 45 percent say they would visit the office more frequently if there was more opportunity to socialise.
Reducing Loneliness, Boosting Wellbeing
The report shows how friendships in the workplace contribute to employee well-being. 60 percent of employees say that they are just as important as friendships outside the office. People who have friends at work enjoy their job more. Seventy percent of them say they look forward coming to work, compared to only 25 percent of those without any connections. Data also indicates that socialising at work makes employees feel more included. Seventy percent of them report a feeling of belonging compared to 37 percent for those who don’t socialise.
According to a report, loneliness is associated with increased absenteeism. Employees who are isolated experience twice as many sick leaves. According to the report, loneliness at work poses similar risks to those associated with smoking, drinking alcohol, and inactivity.
Kirsty Adam, People Director, Talent, Learning, Leadership & Inclusion, Compass Group UK & Ireland, stated that “Creating environments that foster and support positive social environment is crucial – helping overall health, happiness and wellbeing, which enhances peoples loyalty and productivity.” The ‘Power of Socialisation’ Report highlights the necessity of enabling powerful moments of connection with others at work.
Drive Productivity and Retention
The report highlights that social work environments promote collaboration, creativity and productivity. In highly social workplaces, 85 per cent of employees say their teams work together well, 84 per cent feel comfortable expressing their opinions, and 55% report that they complete work on time. In contrast, less social workplaces have a much lower percentage of employees who feel that teamwork is effective. Only 37 percent are comfortable sharing opinions and only 26 percent report meeting work standards on schedule.
The study also found that employees who feel lonely at work are more likely than others to quit their job. Nearly half of employees who feel lonely at work (46%) are likely to leave, and this number rises to 54 percent for Gen Z. In addition, 51 percent said that they would recommend the organisation to others if it was a more social workplace, as opposed to only 11 percent for less social settings.
The study shows a move away from the traditional after-hours events that revolve around alcohol. Employees and potential employees prefer more inclusive, varied activities that are part of the working day. While 49 percent of workers will attend social events after work hours, they also tend to be less likely to do so. Future employees, especially students, said they are looking forward to activities such as themed gatherings (37%), music events (43%), or games (59%).
Sixty-six per cent of employees who attend social events regularly report a better understanding about the company’s strategy and goals compared to only 56 percent who do not. In a similar way, 61 per cent of employees who regularly socialise feel more connected to the senior leadership and 55 per cent perceive opportunities for career advancement.
The “Hotelisation” of the Workplace
The report also highlights a growing trend in the office space, namely ‘hotelisation,’ with an emphasis on well-designed multi-purpose areas for social interaction and relaxation. 60 percent of employees consider social and recreational amenities in the workplace important, while 21 percent consider these amenities essential.
The modern workplace is increasingly incorporating features found in hotels to provide employees with areas of relaxation and connection. Organisations can create an appealing work environment by offering areas designed to boost productivity as well as revitalise employees. This will encourage them to spend more time at the office. These areas can include areas for decompression, or areas with a focus on social interaction to foster stronger team relationships.
