Research reveals workplace well-being improves with age

London – 15th May 2019: Older employees are likely to enjoy improved well-being, according to a study from The Myers-Briggs Company, one of the world’s largest business psychology providers. The research reveals that workplace well-being progressively increases with age and also highlights workplace relationships as one of the most important elements of well-being. 

Data from the three-year international study, which surveyed over 10,000 people from 131 countries, revealed that the youngest age group (18–24 years) report the lowest levels of well-being (6.77 on a 10-point scale) and the oldest age group (65+ years) reported the highest levels (8.14). 

The research supports a widely held hypothesis that people develop ways to support their well-being with experience; something that presents an opportunity for senior-aged workers to help mentor their younger co-workers and enhance organisational well-being.

In contrast, the research found that country culture and gender play little part in contributing to workplace well-being; however workplace relationships are of key importance and personality type also makes an impact.

Commenting on the findings, John Hackston, Head of Thought Leadership at The Myers-Briggs Company, said: “Growing evidence shows well-being influences a wide range of life outcomes and, despite organisations spending vast sums on “wellness programs”, few companies use real insight to inform their workplace well-being strategies. 

“Companies should consider how they can leverage these insights to benefit their workforce. For example, drawing on the wisdom and experience of senior-aged workers to help mentor their younger colleagues can be a key benefit; with mentorship programmes one way to do this.

“Recent organisational research has indicated up to 80% of people in large organisations are not engaged with their work, something that results in huge losses in productivity. We know that improved employee well-being leads to greater commitment to the organisation, improved job satisfaction and a reduced likelihood of job hopping, and ultimately helps to drive business success.

“And considering the currently record-low unemployment levels across the UK, organisations have to compete fiercely for the best talent. Offering excellent workplace well-being is one way to engage and retain employees, both young and old alike.”

Download the full report here.   

About The Myers-Briggs Company 
In our fast-changing world, your edge lies in harnessing 100 percent of your talent – whether you’re at work, home, school, college, or anywhere in between. Your success and sense of fulfilment aren’t just about what you know and what you can do, they hinge on your relationships and interactions with others. The Myers-Briggs Company empowers individuals to be the best versions of themselves by enriching self-awareness and their understanding of others. We help organisations around the world improve teamwork and collaboration, develop inspirational leaders, foster diversity and solve their most complex people challenges. As a certified B Corp (and a registered California Benefit Corporation), The Myers-Briggs Company is a force for good. Our powerfully practical solutions are grounded in a deep understanding of the significant social and technological trends that affect people and organisations. With over 60 years in assessment development and publishing, and over 30 years of consultancy and training expertise, a global network of offices, partners and certified independent consultants in 115 countries, products in 29 languages, and experience working with 88 of the Fortune 100 companies, we’re ready to help you succeed.

   

Media Contacts:

Hiwot Wolde-Senbet, Flagship Consulting
Claire Nelson, Flagship Consulting
Natasha Cobby, Flagship Consulting
myers-briggs@flagshipconsulting.co.uk
+44 207 680 7104

Petra Merne
The Myers-Briggs Company
PMerne@themyersbriggs.com
+44 1865 404584