Most global workers confronted by anxiety, distractions, financial worries due to pandemic
Research by Willis Towers Watson (NASDAQ: WLTW) reveals that over 90% of global employees report anxiety due to the pandemic. Despite these concerns, 78% of employees commend their leaders for effective support and communication. Additionally, 61% express financial worries stemming from COVID-19 disruptions, while only 46% feel their companies facilitate benefit access. The ongoing COVID-19 Employee Pulse Survey involved 95,426 participants worldwide. Employers have an opportunity to enhance employee experience through improved support and technology.
- 78% of employees commend leaders for effective focus on work objectives.
- 74% believe their leaders provide the necessary support at work.
- 71% feel leaders prioritize health and wellbeing.
- 92% report some level of anxiety related to the pandemic.
- 61% express financial concerns due to COVID-19 disruptions.
- Only 46% feel their company is making employee benefits accessible.
ARLINGTON, Va., May 28, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Physical health and safety are not the only concerns affecting employees around the world as a majority report anxiety, distraction and financial worries, according to research by Willis Towers Watson (NASDAQ: WLTW), a leading global advisory, broking and solutions company. Despite their concerns, employees give their leaders good marks for their performance during the pandemic. Willis Towers Watson has tracked the pandemic-related work experiences of more than 100,000 global employees since mid-March.
Alarmingly, over nine in 10 employees (
In addition, six in 10 workforce personnel (
“The challenges presented by this crisis highlight the demand for cross-functional collaboration to truly address employee needs,” said Patrick Kulesa, global research director, Willis Towers Watson. “Employee anxiety can be managed through HR benefit-related coping support, yet combating distraction requires line managers to deepen team connections in appropriate ways, while alleviating financial concerns calls on business heads to demonstrate leadership by navigating the organization through chaotic times.”
Notwithstanding the challenges, employees are pleased with the way their leaders have stepped up to support them in the current environment. A large majority agree their leaders have been effective at focusing on work objectives (
However, the research notes there are concrete actions leaders can take to improve the overall employee experience, such as better understanding job constraints due to issues outside of work. In fact, only about half (
“There is a clear opportunity for employers to put their people first and do all they can to show support and build goodwill,” said Kulesa. “Employers have many levers to pull, such as helping workers upgrade their work-from-home technology and enhancing programs that can help employees battle emotional and financial anxiety.”
About the survey
The results of the COVID-19 Employee Pulse Survey are based on responses from 95,426 employees worldwide, of which approximately
About Willis Towers Watson
Willis Towers Watson (NASDAQ: WLTW) is a leading global advisory, broking and solutions company that helps clients around the world turn risk into a path for growth. With roots dating to 1828, Willis Towers Watson has 45,000 employees serving more than 140 countries and markets. We design and deliver solutions that manage risk, optimize benefits, cultivate talent, and expand the power of capital to protect and strengthen institutions and individuals. Our unique perspective allows us to see the critical intersections between talent, assets and ideas — the dynamic formula that drives business performance. Together, we unlock potential. Learn more at willistowerswatson.com.
Media contact
Ed Emerman: +1 609 240 2766
eemerman@eaglepr.com
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