Canadians and Americans are leaving their jobs at unprecedented rates for reasons other than pay, a phenomenon that is becoming known as the Great Attrition or the Great Resignation.

The pandemic has shifted priorities for many, with an increasing number of people realizing that they want more than just a paycheck from their employer.

A recent McKinsey survey found that about 40% of employees in the U.S. are likely to leave their job in the next three to six months, and nearly 60% of them are prepared to leave without another job lined up.

Similar findings were reported this fall in Canada, too. According to the 11th Annual Hays Salary Guide, about half of Canadian employees surveyed were considering leaving their job. In this report, Ontarians had one of the highest rates, with 52% of residents thinking about quitting their jobs. Two in five employees indicated their employer failed to provide ways to support their wellbeing during the pandemic.

Another Canadian survey conducted this fall may provide further insight. A survey by LifeWorks found that 35% of respondents who said they were ready to leave their job cited lack of appreciation as the reason.

Employees want meaningful work. They want more than a financial incentive to stay – and the same goes for attracting new talent. Employees want to feel appreciated by management. They want a better work-life balance and more flexibility. Essentially, they want the company to show they care about them.

This is all reasonable…. and possible. Employers must take the necessary steps to understand their workforce.

How will your business respond to the Great Attrition?

With the season of giving around the corner, take the opportunity to think about the ways you can show your employees appreciation. A gift card is nice. And so is a bonus. However, survey after survey has shown that employees want assurance that their wellness is a part of the business model. And that means beyond the Christmas season.

More and more employers are investing in their employees’ by introducing workplace wellness programs. Studies show that employees are more motivated and engaged when there is an emphasis on their wellbeing at work.

Does your workplace have a health and wellness culture? An environment that nurtures personal and organizational values, supports the achievement of both employees and business performance?

Med-I-Well Services can walk you through the process of tuning in to your culture or establishing one, by engaging employees and management and creating a program unique to your workforce.

Employee health and wellness are important now more than ever.

The Med-I-Well’s team of health professionals can help you achieve a culture change that is rooted in the values and behaviours of the organization and its people.

Contact us today to learn more about our workplace wellness programs by emailing coach@mediwell.ca

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