Which jobs in Australia bring joy and which cause stress?

It doesn't seem too surprising: working in a lively place, surrounded by people, with fun routines, even if they are stressful, makes someone happier than working in a quiet, formal, and often lonely office, where you repeat the same job every day. Which sounds better? The choice seems obvious, and Australians are clear about the best carrers in their country.

This is just one of the facts revealed by a new study on workplace satisfaction trends globally. Workforce management app Deputy has released its annual Shift Pulse Report for 2024. The company surveyed more than 500,000 Australian workers, asking them how their shifts went while clocking out.

According to the survey, quoted in an article published in the Daily Mail Australia, cafe and hospitality workers lead the ranks as the top jobs in Australia. The reason, says Deputy's Chief Customer Officer, Katrina Holt, is the social nature of cafe work, opportunities for creativity, and vibrant work environments.

"Australia is known for its world-class coffee and love of cafe culture, so it's not surprising that the sector has topped the list of happiest workers," said Ms. Holt, quoted by the author of the article, Zak Wheeler. "The sociable nature of cafe work, along with opportunities for creativity and working in a vibrant atmosphere, have contributed to these workers feeling the most satisfied at the end of their shifts."

Employees in gyms and fast food also reported high levels of job satisfaction, with at least 57 percent of staff in each sector routinely enjoying their shifts.

Stress in Government and Call Centres

On the opposite end of the spectrum, government workers and call center staff reported the highest levels of stress and frustration. The Shift Pulse Report found that 16 percent of government employees ended their shifts feeling stressed or frustrated. This figure highlights the challenging work conditions in these roles, which contribute to high cortisol levels and anxiety syndrome among employees.

Call center employees also experienced increased stress levels, with 11 percent leaving work feeling bad, up from 4 percent in 2023. These workers cited difficult work environments and demanding job requirements as primary reasons for their dissatisfaction. Construction workers, too, expressed high levels of stress, rounding off the list of the least satisfied employees.

The Shift Pulse Report also uncovered regional differences in job satisfaction across Australia. Workers in the Northern Territory reported the highest levels of happiness, with 87 percent feeling 'amazing' after their shifts. In contrast, Tasmanian workers experienced the most stress and frustration, reflecting significant variations in workplace environment and culture across states and territories.

The findings of the Shift Pulse Report underscore the importance of effective workplace policies in managing stress and enhancing employee wellbeing. By addressing workplace issues and fostering a supportive workforce environment, organizations can help reduce employee burnout and improve overall job satisfaction.

Deputy's findings align with the broader trends identified in the Workforce Trends Report, the most extensive study in Australia examining the impact of employee wellbeing on business performance. Lead researcher Dr. James Allen highlighted a concerning drop in employee well-being from 52 percent to 48 percent since last year. Only one-third of businesses are listening to employee feedback on wellbeing and bringing about change, while another third are listening but not acting, and the remaining third are not even listening.

The so-called best careers in Australia are not only synonymous with the best-paid jobs. The Workforce Trends Report, which surveyed over 2,600 participants, revealed that organizations must look beyond just salary and perks to attract and retain top talent. Understanding and addressing the employee experience is crucial, as low employee well-being presents a growing risk for organizations.

Understanding the reasons for workplace stress and implementing strategies for stress management and mental health awareness will be crucial in creating a more positive and productive workplace environment for all employees. By taking focused and deliberate action based on comprehensive data, organizations can improve job satisfaction and contribute to the overall mental health of their workforce.

Read also: Article: Happiness is about health - specifically a healthy work environment, say professionals (peoplemattersglobal.com)

How to Be Happy in the Workplace: Effective Strategies

Happiness at work significantly impacts productivity, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. Wherever you work - be it a cheerful coffee shop or a quiet office - there are ways to get the best out of each place.

While there are objective conditions that determine the well-being of teams, part of satisfaction in the work environment is related to the attitude with which challenges and problems are faced on a day-to-day basis.

Here are some effective strategies to foster happiness in the workplace:

1. Develop Strong Relationships

• Build Connections: Foster positive relationships with colleagues. Engage in team activities and social events to strengthen bonds.

• Communicate Openly: Maintain open communication channels with your team and supervisors to share ideas and feedback.

2. Create a Positive Work Environment

• Personalize Your Space: Decorate your workspace with items that make you feel comfortable and inspired.

• Promote Inclusivity: Advocate for a diverse and inclusive work culture where everyone feels valued and respected.

3. Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance

• Set Boundaries: Clearly define your work hours and avoid taking work home. Prioritize personal time and self-care.

• Take Breaks: Regular breaks help refresh your mind and prevent burnout. Use this time to stretch, walk, or engage in a hobby.

4. Engage in Meaningful Work

• Find Purpose: Align your tasks with your values and long-term goals. Seek roles that offer personal fulfillment and growth opportunities.

• Set Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals to stay motivated and focused.

5. Practice Stress Management

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness practices to reduce stress and increase focus.

• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can help reduce stress and improve mood. Even short walks during breaks can be beneficial.

6. Seek Professional Development

• Continuous Learning: Pursue training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.

• Career Growth: Set clear career goals and work towards them. Seek mentorship and guidance from experienced colleagues.

7. Prioritize Health and Wellbeing

• Healthy Eating: Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated throughout the day.

• Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough rest to stay alert and productive at work.

8. Embrace Positivity

• Positive Thinking: Focus on the positive aspects of your job and celebrate small achievements.

• Gratitude Practice: Regularly express gratitude for your colleagues and the opportunities you have.

Read also: News: Office mandates don't help make more money but do reduce employee happiness: Study — People Matters Global

9. Enhance Work Efficiency

• Organize Tasks: Use to-do lists and prioritize tasks to manage your workload effectively.

• Delegate When Necessary: Don’t hesitate to ask for help or delegate tasks when overwhelmed.

10. Advocate for a Supportive Work Culture

• Feedback Mechanisms: Encourage your organization to implement feedback systems to address workplace issues and improve employee wellbeing.

• Mental Health Awareness: Promote mental health initiatives and support services within your workplace.