More than a third (36%) of UK employees said a positive connection with colleagues makes them feel happiest at work, according to research by HR and payroll software provider Ciphr.
Its survey of 2,000 employed UK adults found that seeing the results and impact of their work was also cited by 36% when it comes to what makes them happy at work, along with recognition and purposeful work (34%), and job satisfaction or enjoyment (33%).
Almost a third (31%) cited their salary, 28% said flexible working, 27% work variety, 26% autonomy, and 24% cited being part of a team.
Other things that make staff feel happy at work include working from home (23%), their organisation’s reputation, values and workplace culture (21%), being part of a positive impact on the community or environment (16%), feeling challenged and working in an office with other people (15%), their work environment and location (13%), and their manager (12%).
Just 18% of those aged 55 years and above said they feel happy every day, compared to 12% of 45-54 year olds, and 9% of those aged under 45. Those who feel happy 20 days or more a month were twice as likely to feel engaged and fulfilled by their work, to feel valued, and listened to by their employer.
Nearly three-quarters (72%) find their job fulfilling and engaging all or most of the time, while 68% of those who said they enjoyed their job, feel happy 20 days or more a month.
Nearly half (47%) of those who only feel happy 10 days or less a month feel overworked or regularly think about leaving their jobs (44%), compared to 21% and 16% of those who felt happy more often.
The top source of employee happiness for non-managers is their work colleagues (36%), followed by recognition and job satisfaction (33% each).
People working at middle management level or higher are the most likely to be happy with their salary and benefits, at 37%, and are more likely to say that they like the organisation they work for (26%).
Karen Lough, director of people at Ciphr, said: “Happiness is important for health and wellbeing. It can help counter stress and burnout and help [staff] feel more energised and engaged. So, when employees aren’t happy at work, it shows up in their performance.
“Happiness is built by doing the basics well: making sure that employees are treated fairly, are doing meaningful work, that they have clear expectations, the right tools, opportunities for career growth, managers who can support them, and, most importantly, have leaders who are transparent, authentic, and who listen and keep their word.”
