The Building Human Workplaces report reveals critical insights into the state of the workforce, as its findings reveal 1 in 3 managers and 1 in 4 employees are planning to seek new jobs within the next year. The report also highlights that employees’ wellbeing has decreased since 2023, with those feeling frequently stressed increasing from 33% to 37%, and those that are frequently burned out rising from 23% to 28%.
These trends point to real advantages for those companies that can create a culture in which employees want to stay and are more likely to be productive.
Top strategies to drive results
1. Be transparent with communication
Employees crave clarity, especially in uncertain times. Open and honest communication leads to 80% of employees more likely to trust an organization. When employees trust, they are more likely to stay, work hard and adapt to changes.
2. Support managers with training
Managers play a crucial role in bridging strategy and execution. Most employees (79%) say the relationship they have with their manager impacts productivity, yet only 44% of managers have received management training. Providing support and training to this crucial group will let them know they are valued, making it less likely they will leave, and take your business results with them.
3. Engage and connect with recognition
Formal recognition programs produce eNPS increases similar to cash bonuses, but cost far less. Additionally, 85% of employees report that feeling appreciated impacts their productivity. Organizations can develop or improve recognition programs to show employees their contributions are valued, reducing the likelihood of turnover. Recognition technology can ensure this program has a maximum return to your organization without being a drain on your People Team.
4. Wellbeing initiatives
The report shares that 58% of employees would rather have a company that cares about their wellbeing than a 10% pay raise.
There is real power building benefits, policies and leadership strategies that prioritize mental health and work-life balance.
By adopting these strategies, organizations can cultivate a human-centric workplace that not only attracts talent, but also retains it effectively in 2026 and beyond.
Reward Gateway | Edenred’s Employee Experience Platform is designed to help managers better support their teams, providing them with the tools and programs needed to improve workplace culture and alleviate the stress felt in today’s workplace. The platform gives leaders the ability to follow templated programs, or customize them to their organizations’ specific needs, to foster cultures of recognition, appreciation and wellbeing.
Schedule a demo with a member of our team to learn more about how we can help you make your corner of the world a better place to work.
