How Technology can help to Bolster Employee Engagement and Happiness
In our contemporary world, the boundary between work and personal life has become increasingly blurred, impacting employee engagement and happiness. This is largely due to the fast-paced advancements in technology, which have encroached upon employees’ free time and created significant stress. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 64% of employees identified their jobs as a major source of personal stress, even before the Covid-19 pandemic!
Against this backdrop, the pressing question is: How can we use technology to relieve employees’ stress rather than exacerbate it? As a technology leader, iLink recognizes the crucial role that technology can play in fostering a work culture that prioritizes employee engagement & happiness. By judiciously using cutting-edge tools and solutions, we can promote productivity, enhance collaboration, and achieve a healthy work-life balance.
In this blog post, we delve into how harnessing technology can significantly elevate employee happiness and engagement.
Understanding the Role of Technology in Employee Engagement & Happiness
Before we look into the various strategies, it’s crucial to understand why it’s important to use technology to boost employee happiness. Businesses have an ethical obligation to empower their employees to strike a balance between their professional and personal lives. Happier, healthier employees are also more productive, capable of more focused attention and problem-solving, which ultimately benefits the organization.
Flexible Work Arrangements
With the help of cloud-based technology and secure networks, organizations can offer flexible work arrangements to their employees. Tools like VPNs, cloud servers, and cybersecurity solutions support remote work, flexible hours, and telecommuting. This flexibility can dramatically decrease commute time and related stress, thus allowing employees to manage their work and personal lives more effectively.
The Owl Labs survey indicates that employees with these flexible options reported a greater level of job satisfaction, with 71% saying they are content with their current position as opposed to 55% of on-site employees. This highlights the power of technology in achieving a balance between professional obligations and personal life.
Communication and Collaboration Tools
Tools such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Trello facilitate real-time communication and collaboration. They break down geographical barriers and enable seamless team coordination, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection. These platforms not only enhance workflow but also contribute to creating a positive work environment. According to a McKinsey poll, 77% of participants thought that team communication and decision-making were improved by the use of digital collaboration tools.
Wellness and Fitness Apps
Wellness and fitness apps like Calm, Headspace, or MyFitnessPal promote both physical and mental well-being. They provide resources for guided meditation, personalized workout routines, stress management tools, and reminders for taking regular breaks. Alongside, IoT devices like wearables or smart task trackers can assist in workload management. These technologies empower employees to take control of their well-being, promoting a healthier work lifestyle that directly contributes to a happier workforce.
Learning and Development Opportunities with AR-VR
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies present a new horizon in corporate learning and development. AR provides real-time instructions for hands-on training, while VR simulates high-stakes situations for risk-free practice. Paired with online platforms, AR and VR foster self-paced, comprehensive learning, enhancing career growth and personal satisfaction, marking a transformative step in corporate learning strategies.
Automating Repetitive Tasks and Performance Management Systems
By harnessing the power of AI/ ML, businesses can automate mundane, repetitive tasks. This not only increases efficiency but also allows employees to concentrate on more creative, high-value tasks, enhancing their job satisfaction. Along with automation, technology-driven performance management systems offer regular, real-time feedback, align personal goals with organizational targets, and provide platforms for recognizing employees’ achievements, boosting employee morale and happiness.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
Digital EAP platforms provide a variety of support services such as confidential counseling, mental health resources, and wellness guidance. These resources, accessible from anywhere at any time, help employees to navigate personal challenges, improving their overall well-being. In an era where mental health is gaining increased recognition, these platforms play a pivotal role in promoting employee happiness.
By effectively harnessing these tech-driven solutions, organizations can create an environment that not only boosts productivity but also promotes employee happiness.
iLink Digital: Your Tech Partner for Employee Engagement & Happiness
At iLink, we deeply value our employees’ well-being and the balance between their work and personal life. Our commitment extends beyond words; it is evident in our initiatives focused on mental wellness and regular engagement activities. With a wealth of resources and years of experience, iLink stands as a leading partner for businesses aiming for growth and innovation.
