Construction is named the happiest industry
The construction industry tops a list of sectors with the happiest workforces, according to a new report from Bamboo HR. The human resources tech company measured the Employee Net Promoter Score at over 1,600 companies, calculating how likely workers were to recommend their organization as a place to work over the last three years.
The report attributed construction workers’ happiness to rising wages and numerous job opportunities, but also predicted the labor shortage will put pressure on existing employees in the months ahead. It suggested HR pros focus on recruiting and training less experienced workers.
Recruiters should also keep an eye out for discontent, the report found. From January to May this year, happiness dropped 81% — a sharper drop than the 13% decrease from 2020 through the present, which the report attributed to the pressure from staffing issues.
Other insights from the report include:
In the technology sector, employee happiness is plummeting fast. Beyond industry-wide financial stumbles, unpopular return-to-office mandates may be to blame.
The finance industry has managed to remain nimble and responsive to fast-changing workplace norms. Its openness to remote and hybrid work, as well as its focus on company culture, promise to sustain employees' high levels of satisfaction.
Since 2008, nonprofit employment has grown 3x faster than the for-profit sector—possibly due to nonprofits' mission-driven cultures. As more workers crave meaning, nonprofits should continue focusing on benefits and professional development opportunities.
In the restaurant and food and beverage industries, staff shortages are putting pressure on employers to raise wages. Employees want to work in a positive, supportive environment that offers professional development opportunities.
As the travel and hospitality industry recovers from the pandemic, employee happiness is steadily improving. But looming staff shortages threaten this industry's stability.
Educators feel overworked, underpaid, and underappreciated. Human resources professionals should advocate for changes that educators value most, including adequate compensation, a supportive workplace culture, and assistance navigating the tense political environment.
Healthcare is the unhappiest industry on our list. Human resources professionals should strive to foster a culture where employees feel valued and included in effectively run teams. Healthcare workers are more likely to commit to a values-driven employer who prioritizes high-quality, patient-centered care.
