What are the benefits of social sustainability?

Studies show that when people are motivated and feel comfortable where they are, they stay. This can be applied to all areas of life. One of them: The workplace. Naturally, pay and the provision of the necessary work equipment play a central role. However, another important aspect has become increasingly important in the past – showing people recognition through various forms of appreciation. In short: social sustainability.

Social sustainability strategies often fall victim to other parameters, such as enormous price pressure, particularly in the manufacturing industry, logistics, care or education and training. Fixed-term employment contracts, high demands, too fast a pace of work and a lack of appreciation often go hand in hand with this. High staff turnover and numerous sick days are just two of the effects that these work areas and sectors have to contend with.

According to a study conducted by Stepstone, job security is the most important factor when choosing an employer. Followed by a good working atmosphere and flexible working hours. Also in the top 10 of the study: scope for creativity and decision-making, recognition and praise as well as employee participation offers. In another survey, 40 percent of employees stated that good cooperation with colleagues leads to greater commitment. For almost a third of those surveyed, a good work-life balance and a respectful and trusting corporate culture give employees a motivation boost.

Other factors that contribute to the social sustainability of companies include fair treatment of each other, defining clear common goals and permanent employment contracts. Reason enough, therefore, for employers to focus more on the well-being and appreciation of their employees and to invest more time, thought and ultimately also money in the long-term retention of employees. After all, it is up to employers and managers to ensure that employees feel valued and comfortable – and that the above-mentioned approaches are implemented and put into practice. After all, decision-makers and employers must not forget one thing: Human resources as employees are just as finite as ecological resources. It is up to them to ensure that they stay and have a good time at work.