In reality though, one in four Australians are stressed and anxious1 and our research shows more than half (55%) of employees feel stressed while working.
The reasons for this are varied, but in a tightening labour market, and in the context of continued technology advancement and disruption, Australian businesses must review their strategies in order to attract and retain talent.
While the nature of work and the skills we need are changing, one thing remains constant. For organisations to thrive, employees must thrive too. Happy employees are more engaged in their work, are more loyal to their employers, and contribute more meaningfully to their organisations’ goals.
Employers traditionally have been focused on the success of their employees in the workplace but in today’s battle for talent, expectations are changing. With the world of work and life having the potential to blend like never before — people are sometimes left feeling overwhelmed or like they are falling short in one or all areas.
Australian employees are working longer hours than our OECD counterparts2, and more often in part-time or casual work or on a freelance basis, where shifts and benefits can vary.
Our research findings show that flexibility in hours, location and role responsibilities, as well as the ability to customise benefits that suit their particular lifestyle is valued by an Australian workforce where employees, enabled by technology, increasingly want to work on their terms.
Employers are beginning to recognise this struggle. To better compete for and manage talent, employers need to value employees’ whole selves and individuality. Employees are also craving work-life balance and need the flexibility and support to not only manage, but enrich their lives — to find greater stability, purpose, and growth both personally and professionally.
At MetLife, we’re here to help people and businesses navigate and thrive in the new work-life world.
In this year’s report, the fifth of its kind in Australia, we look at how employers can attract, engage, and retain the best talent by helping employees thrive in work and in life.
Richard Nunn
CEO, MetLife Australia
