The majority of workers in Switzerland’s professional sector (89%) are stressed by their jobs, according to latest Candidate Pulse Study 2024 from Michael Page. 

The study found that only 27% of employers have put in place measures to address the issue. As a result, employers are potentially missing an opportunity to attract and retain talent as well as build employee satisfaction.

According to Michael Page, there were two major factors that caused the most job stress for employees: Lack of recognition (38%) and too much work (31%). Meanwhile, one in five employees (20%) had left their previous jobs due to workplace stress. Another 30% advised that although they were stressed, they remained in their jobs but were open to new opportunities outside of the organisation.

Of those employers who initiated workplace support initiatives to help reduce stress (27%), the most common forms are employee assistance programs, providing expert telephone-based support from external professionals (44%), and facilitation of conversations with management (44%).

The study also showed that benefits relating to employee well-being are a key factor in candidates choosing an employer. A comfortable work environment was either “important” or “very important” to 97% of job seekers. This was followed by the provision of mental well-being programs (79%) and flexible work conditions relating to both hours and location (74%).

In the absence of support mechanisms, most employees discussed issues around workplace stress with family and friends before colleagues and managers.

“If not addressed, this has the potential to carry over outside of the organisation through rating sites or social media,” the study stated. “This can add to the challenges organisations face in recruiting.”

Yannick Coulange, managing director, PageGroup Switzerland, said, “Employee retention levels are strongest in companies where managers make the time to speak to their team members and identify ways of addressing their key issues as well as recognise their achievements.”