Workers disengaged 28 per cent of the time: Survey

Workers are disengaged at their jobs more than one-quarter (28 per cent) of the time, on average, leaving the door open to lost productivity, low morale and turnover, according to a survey by staffing firm Accountemps.

When professionals were asked what would make them more engaged at work, the top response was better perks (42 per cent), followed by less bureaucracy and red tape (31 per cent), more challenging work (27 per cent), a lighter workload (24 per cent), more team-building and work outings (24 per cent) and a better boss (17 per cent).

"Engaged workers set the tone for a more positive, collaborative and productive organization at every level," said David King, Canadian president of Accountemps. "Cultivating employee commitment should be an ongoing priority for business leaders. Establish an open dialogue with your staff to learn what motivates them; allow them flexibility to explore new ideas and challenges in a culture that promotes their wellbeing, therefore encouraging a more satisfied and loyal workforce."

“What would make you more engaged at work?”

Accountemps surveyed more than 550 Canadian workers in an office environment.