Nearly half (46 per cent) of respondents said they’re satisfied with their current roles and responsibilities, with work-life balance and flexibility the top contributor to satisfaction, according to a new survey by ADP Canada.
The survey, which polled more than 1,200 Canadian employees, found the average happiness score for July was 6.8 out of 10, unchanged from last month and July 2024. Generation Z workers saw the biggest boost in workplace happiness over the summer and reported an average score of seven out of 10, rising 0.3 points and ranking just behind baby boomers (7.1).
The average score for overall satisfaction with one’s work situation rose slightly to 7.1, followed by work-life balance and flexibility (6.9), recognition and support (6.6), compensation and benefits (6.3) and options for career advancement (6.1).
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Saskatchewan/Manitoba and Atlantic Canada tied as the happiest regions (7.1), with Atlantic Canada recording a 0.4-point jump. Québec followed closely at 7.0, while Alberta workers reported the lowest score at 6.4, a drop of 0.5 points from last month.
The survey also found seven in 10 (69 per cent) plan to take a vacation this summer, with four in 10 travelling to another Canadian region or staying within their local area and nearly a third (32 per cent) planning a staycation. One in five (21 per cent) expect to travel internationally. Among workers who aren’t taking a vacation, a quarter (24 per cent) cited financial or economic concerns as the main reason.
Read: How employers can help employees unplug on vacation
“Time off and meaningful support from colleagues continues to play an important role in shaping a healthy workplace and the long-term productivity of the workforce,” said Heather Haslam, vice-president of marketing at ADP Canada. “Employers who create opportunities for employees to recharge and feel supported are investing in both their people and their performance.”