Having a laugh with co-workers is more important than getting a pay rise

Having a laugh with co-workers is more important than getting a pay rise

People in Ireland place more value on a positive work environment than money.

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THE MAJORITY OF Irish employees think getting along with your co-workers is more important than how much money you make.

A new survey has found that people are most attracted to companies which offer good working conditions (61%), a positive culture (53%) and a good work/life balance (52%).

Regular pay rises ranked lowest with less than a third (31%) citing this as important.

The survey, which was conducted by YouGov on behalf of Ricoh Ireland, polled 1,072 people over the age of 16.

When asked what a business needs to do to be considered responsible, the highest priority was treating employees well (75%), including not abusing their rights.

The next highest priorities were being honest about products and pricing (74%), following the law (62%), paying the right amount of tax (59%) and reducing environmental impact where they can (56%).

Just one in four people said they believe the majority of businesses in Ireland operate in a responsible manner.

Seven in ten people said they are more likely to buy from companies that act in a responsible way, even when compared with cheaper ‘less responsible’ options.

Changing attitudes 

Gary Hopwood, general manager of Ricoh Ireland, said the findings show “a need for Irish businesses to act more responsibly as they look to grow”.

Employees are now looking for much more than just a pay packet at the end of the month from their employers. Businesses need to recognise this and provide them with great working environments and a work/life balance that meets their needs.

Tina Roche, chief executive of Business in the Community Ireland, said the research “highlights the changing expectations of employees and consumers in Ireland”.

“They now want to work with and buy from more responsible and sustainable businesses. Being a good corporate citizen has become an essential part of growth and success for any organisation,” she added.