The No. 1 benefit that keeps people happy at work, says exec in Finland: 'It's not about the hours—it's about the results'
How does Framery assess the factors that contribute to its employees' happiness and engagement at work?
Framery, a Finnish manufacturing company that makes soundproof pods for office spaces, prioritizes employee happiness and engagement at work. To assess the factors that contribute to their employees' happiness and engagement, the company conducts annual surveys of its approximately 400 employees. These surveys aim to identify the most important aspects that keep the employees happy and engaged in their work.
One of the key factors that consistently ranks high in these surveys is the concept of work-life balance. In order to promote this balance, Framery's company leaders actively support flexibility in their employees' work schedules and break times. This flexibility allows employees to structure their workday and workweek in a way that meets their personal needs, such as taking care of their children or attending to other personal responsibilities.
In addition to the annual surveys, Framery leaders also maintain open communication with their employees and encourage regular breaks throughout the workday for better focus and mental health. For instance, employees are encouraged to take an hour-long break once a week for exercise, whether it's for a walk or to use the company's onsite gym.
By prioritizing work-life balance, providing flexibility, and encouraging open communication and regular breaks, Framery is able to create an environment that fosters employee happiness and engagement at work.
What is the primary benefit that contributes to employee happiness at Framery, according to the company's leadership?
The primary benefit that contributes to employee happiness at Framery, according to the company's leadership, is flexibility in work schedules and break times. This flexibility allows employees to mix their personal and work life, enabling them to better achieve work-life balance.
What specific practices does Framery implement to support work-life balance for its employees?
Framery, a Finnish manufacturing company, prioritizes work-life balance for its employees through several specific practices:
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Flexibility in Work Schedules: Framery encourages a flexible work schedule, allowing employees to structure their workday and workweek according to their personal needs. This means employees can start their day early and leave early if they have personal commitments, like picking up their children from daycare.
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No Set Work Hours: Framery does not enforce strict work hours. Employees generally arrive between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. and leave by late afternoon. It's normal for employees to leave work at 4 o'clock.
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Flexible Work Hours: Employees can work with their managers to determine their work hours. They can work six hours one day and eight hours the next, as long as they meet their weekly hour requirements.
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Regular Breaks: Framery encourages regular breaks throughout the day. Staff members are encouraged to take an hour-long break once a week for exercise, whether it's for a walk or to use the company's onsite gym.
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Trust and Focus on Results: Framery emphasizes that the most important thing is getting the work done. The company trusts its employees to manage their work hours and be productive, focusing on results rather than the number of hours worked.
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Wellness Programs: Framery offers various wellness programs to support employee well-being, including occupational health care and access to a dedicated occupational health psychologist5.
These practices are designed to give employees the freedom to balance their work and personal lives effectively, fostering a sense of satisfaction and engagement among the workforce.