With the search for qualified professionals becoming increasingly competitive, offering a good salary is no longer enough to attract and retain talent. Happiness in the workplace has become a strategic differentiator, with direct impacts on productivity, creativity, and companies’ financial results.
Studies indicate that happy employees are more productive. According to Harvard Business Review, satisfied employees can show up to a 30% increase in productivity. In areas like sales, these professionals can achieve 37% better results. A positive environment reduces stress levels, increasing overall satisfaction and decreasing employee turnover, which generates significant savings in hiring and training processes.
For Carla Martins, vice president of SERAC, a leading corporate solutions hub in accounting, legal, educational, and technology areas, one of the major challenges for organizations is ensuring employees are happy not just for financial gains but for the experiences and values provided by the company. “What do you do in your organization to ensure people stay for reasons beyond salary? The answer to this question should be at the heart of any Human Resources strategic planning,” she says.
Strategies that go beyond salary
For Carla Martins, investing in employee well-being should be part of a broader corporate strategy, where leaders play an essential role. “Creating an environment that values and motivates the team is crucial. This includes recognizing achievements and offering conditions that promote work-life balance,” she evaluates.
The vice president of SERAC emphasizes that focusing on employee happiness is not just an HR practice but a strategic decision. “Companies that prioritize their teams reap the benefits in the form of greater engagement, reduced operational costs, and better financial results in the long term,” she says.
Carla believes that a welcoming and inspiring environment creates a positive cycle, where employees reciprocate with greater dedication and innovation. “By adopting a proactive and well-being-focused approach, companies not only retain valuable talent but also build a strong organizational culture capable of facing the challenges of an ever-evolving market,” she concludes.
Check out the strategies suggested by Carla Martins for a company to invest in corporate happiness:
- Recognition of achievements: Celebrating success is essential. “At SERAC, we value those who meet goals and deliver important results. We’ve awarded prizes like trips, money, and even raffled a car. These actions create a stimulating and rewarding environment,” highlights Carla.
- Promoting work-life balance: Workplace flexibility, such as adaptable schedules, helps meet employees’ needs.
- Professional development programs: Investing in training, courses, and growth opportunities demonstrates commitment to employees’ futures.
- Well-being-focused benefits: Mental health plans, psychological support, and initiatives that promote physical and emotional health are increasingly valued.
- Feedback and communication culture: Regularly listening to employees and implementing improvements based on their input strengthens the sense of belonging.
