Only 24% of workers in Indian organisations experience high levels of workplace wellbeing, while over three-fourths of all employees within Indian businesses indicate experiencing low levels.

However, a collaborative study conducted by Indeed and Forrester Consulting, highlighted that low levels of workplace wellbeing are not exclusive to India. This issue extends globally, as survey findings reveal that Indian organisations align almost closely with the worldwide average of thriving employees, standing at 25%.

In the report titled ‘Work Wellbeing In India 2023 Report: How Thriving People Create Thriving Companies,’ findings showcased that employees regarded as thriving at work possess distinct qualities, as outlined by the University of Oxford Wellness Research Centre.

These characteristics encompass elevated job satisfaction, minimal work-related stress, heightened levels of positivity and happiness, along with a well-defined sense of purpose within their organisational responsibilities.

Poor wellbeing is often a sign of leadership issues

The survey revealed that more than 67% of employees concur that their employers bear responsibility for their work wellbeing. Traits of such workplaces encompass a sense of inclusiveness, acceptance, interactions characterised by respect, and the availability of supportive managers. 

A substantial majority (93%) affirm that their managers exhibit empathetic leadership, with 87% observing that their managers set an example through their conduct. However, such instances remain sparse, as indicated by major workplace culture studies in India. 

According to 69% of surveyed employees, senior leadership within their organisations anticipates individuals to shoulder additional tasks beyond their designated roles.

Recruiters face a generational challenge with Gen-Z

The survey findings also uncover a noticeable generational transformation in employees' perspectives concerning wellbeing. The number of thriving employees within the Gen-Z category, aged 18 to 26, is lower (20%) in contrast to the Millennials (24%) and Gen-X (27%). 

Furthermore, older employees demonstrate more confidence in their employers' capacity to give precedence to employee wellbeing. Among GenZ, 67% believe that their employers link wellbeing and happiness to business prosperity. 

Conversely, for Millennials and Gen-X, the corresponding figures were 78% and 74%.This divide presents significant challenges for HR and recruitment managers, since over 88% believe it’s important to find companies that care about how you feel.

“Wellbeing at work is an integral part of our daily lives, whether we're working remotely or in the office. Our findings indicate that emphasis on wellbeing at work will only increase going forward,” stated Sashi Kumar, Head of Sales, Indeed India.