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new report

The global benchmark for workplace joy

At Reward Gateway | Edenred, we believe happiness is serious business. Happier workplaces are built through everyday moments of joy, when people feel energised, appreciated and connected.

Drawing on insights from more than 26,000 employees and HR leaders across 27 markets, including the UK,The Global Workplace Joy Index explores what workplace joy looks like, how employees’ experiences compare with HR leaders’ perceptions, and how joy is linked to retention, productivity and advocacy. 

Key takeaways:

  • How workplace joy connects to business outcomes
  • Where HR leaders’ perceptions differ from employees’ experiences
  • What can help build and sustain workplace joy
Download the Report
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Workplace joy has a measurable business impact.

Across the study, workers with high joy scores were more likely to expect to stay with their employer and to feel more productive than workers with low joy scores. 

94%

of high-joy workers expect to stay with their employer for the next 12 months, compared with 63% of low-joy workers. 

73%

of high-joy workers feel more productive than they did a year ago, compared with 27%* of low-joy workers. 

63

is the average global Joy Index score. 

What shapes workplace joy? 

The report looks beyond the headline scores to explore the everyday experiences that help people feel valued, supported and connected at work, including where UK employees' experiences differ from HR leaders' perceptions.

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The UK Workplace perception gap

71% of UK HR leaders say employee engagement has increased, but only 35% of UK employees feel more engaged.

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Benefits that matter
Workers say benefits are the most common way their organisation enables workplace joy (29%), followed by growth opportunities (28%).
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Recognition that lands
Only 18% of workers receive recognition from their manager at least three times a month. Moving from no recognition to one instance a month is linked to a higher likelihood of staying.

Get the evidence behind workplace joy. 

Download The Global Workplace Joy Index to explore the findings and consider what they could mean for your organisation. 

Download the Report