Having something to look forward to each day gives us a sense of purpose.
That’s where occupational well-being comes in—it’s about feeling fulfilled, energized, and genuinely satisfied with the work we do. After all, the way we spend our time shapes not only our careers but also who we are.
Occupational well-being is all about thriving in your role, with job satisfaction, work-life balance, and opportunities for growth. When it’s lacking, it can throw other areas of life off balance, too.
Employers who invest in occupational well-being create a healthy, meaningful work experience that enriches life both in and out of the workplace.
Questions for L&D Leaders
- Have we created interest-based clubs that truly connect with our employees’ unique passions and hobbies?
- Are these clubs helping to build stronger social connections and boost engagement across our workplace?
- How well are our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) building a sense of belonging and support?
- How can we further empower these groups to strengthen social wellness and inclusivity across our organization?
5 employee engagement statistics for your leadership team
Sixteen percent of employees are actively disengaged at work, potentially harming their work environment through negative attitudes or actions.
—Gallup
Eighty-nine percent of HR professionals agree that regular feedback, check-ins, and recognition are key drivers of employee engagement. (Zippia)
— Zippia
Eighty-nine percent of employees with wellness programs are more engaged and happier with their job.
— Gallup
Only twenty-nine percent of employees are satisfied with their career advancement opportunities. (SHRM)
— SHRM
Tips for enhancing occupational wellbeing
Step 1: Train Managers to Lead with Empathy
A Gallup study found that around 50% of employees have left a job to escape poor management. Strong leadership is key to a positive workplace, so consider implementing leadership training to help managers foster a psychologically safe environment where employees feel heard. Check out OpenSesame’s Leadership Toolkit to get started.
Step 2: Show Appreciation with Recognition Programs
Set up a recognition program to celebrate achievements—whether it’s a successful project, reaching a sales milestone, or work anniversaries. Recognizing employees for their contributions helps them feel valued and motivated.
Step 3: Communicate Clear Career Paths
Establish and communicate a clear career ladder in each department, so employees understand the expectations, paths to promotion, and opportunities for raises. Regular feedback helps employees stay on track and know what they’re working toward.
Step 4: Offer Growth and Development Opportunities
Support professional growth by allowing employees time to work on self-development during the workday, offer access to personal career surveys, and OpenSesame’s online training focused on career exploration or a stipend for certifications and training that enrich their roles.
Step 5: Enable Career Exploration
For high performers interested in exploring other parts of the business, create opportunities for shadowing or mentorship in different departments to expand their skills and perspectives.
Step 6: Empower Employees to Contribute
Encourage employee input in decision-making to foster a sense of ownership and involvement in the company’s direction. Use surveys and open discussions to give everyone a voice.
Potential financial wellness survey questions for employees
- Do I feel my strengths align well with my current role?
- Do I look forward to coming to work most days?
- How do I positively impact the team through my role?
- What aspects of my job bring me the most satisfaction?
- What valuable lessons or skills have I gained in my current role?
- Are there additional learning or development opportunities that would make my work more fulfilling?
- Do I feel supported and effectively managed by my supervisors?
- Do I have enough autonomy and control over my work?
- Do I feel encouraged to share ideas and feedback openly?
- Do I feel comfortable talking to my manager and colleagues when issues come up?
Eighty percent of companies that gauge employee happiness are more likely to have employees stay for another year. Surprisingly, only half of businesses actively measure worker satisfaction.
-Indeed, Workplace Wellness Report 2022
All this and ongoing support for your team with OpenSesame
Have questions about this guide or our resources? Want to collaborate with the curation team on a custom Wellness training plan using the OpenSesame catalog?
We’re here for you! Reach out to your Customer Success Manager today.
Here’s our curated list of 35 OpenSesame Select courses to support your team
