A new survey has revealed that front-line workers need to feel a sense of belonging in the workplace to be motivated to stay in their jobs.

The survey, titled "Frontline Workers: How to Connect, Enable, and Support Them in the Modern Workplace," was conducted on behalf of Lighthouse Research & Advisory and collected data from front-line workers in Australia and New Zealand across various sectors, including construction, energy, health care, hospitality, manufacturing, retail, and transportation.

The study found that a positive experience in the workplace, along with the necessary tools and support for growth, are essential for front-line workers to develop their full potential in a positive, psychologically safe environment, and to commit to their company's objectives.

The survey also revealed that 79% of workers who feel a sense of belonging in the workplace have no intention of leaving their jobs, while 20% of front-line workers plan to leave their job in the next three to six months.

Other key findings from the survey include:

1) Modern technology is essential for front-line workers to work efficiently and effectively.

2) Workplace belonging is critical to the well-being and retention of front-line workers.

3) Front-line workers are 9x more likely to have a supportive boss, and those who do not feel supported are 4x more likely to say that their mental health and well-being have declined in the past year.

4) Only 33% of respondents who do not feel supported at their current company intend to stay.

The message to employers is clear: to retain front-line workers, they need to build a stronger support system for their employees. It is vital to provide the necessary tools and resources to improve their working lives and offer a positive experience in the workplace, resulting in a sense of belonging, growth, and permanence.

The study emphasises the need for employers to focus on the needs and priorities of their front-line workers to enhance their well-being and, above all, their retention. Providing a supportive workplace is a concrete and effective action to keep this essential workforce in the workplace.