The eCommerce recruitment agency, Cranberry Panda has been keeping a close eye on this trend, and their 2023 eCommerce Salary Survey has revealed some interesting statistics on the matter, including factors that contribute towards better mental health and wellbeing.
To tell us more, we sat down with Yasha Mirsamadi, Director for Cranberry Panda. Yasha is the Director of Cranberry Panda, a specialist eCommerce recruitment agency. With over 15 years of experience in the recruitment industry, Yasha has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by eCommerce businesses.
Under his leadership, Cranberry Panda has become a trusted partner for leading eCommerce companies, providing tailored recruitment solutions that help businesses attract and retain top talent.
With his extensive knowledge of the eCommerce industry and his passion for supporting employee well-being, Yasha is well-positioned to provide insights into the current state of the industry and the importance of supporting employee mental health and well-being.
He is currently leading the mission to make Cranberry Panda the go-to recruitment agency for eCommerce talent across the UK, Europe & US.
FLEXIBLE WORKING
One of the standout findings from the survey was that 92% of eCommerce leaders use flexible working arrangements as a way to support their employees’ wellbeing and mental health.
This approach can allow workers to have more control over their work schedules and manage personal responsibilities, which can ultimately lead to reduced stress and anxiety levels and a better work-life balance.
This high percentage shows that eCommerce leaders are aware that flexible working has become invaluable, and if they do not offer it, they could be missing out on top talent.
Flexible working is also a crucial aspect to consider when developing an inclusive hiring process. Flexible working arrangements suit different personality types – where extroverts may thrive in a busy, energised, and connected environment like the office, introverts may benefit from working from home to feel more comfortable and focused. By not offering flexible working, companies could be excluding certain groups.
REALISTIC WORKLOAD
In addition to flexible working arrangements, the survey also found that 58% of eCommerce leaders offer a realistic workload to their employees, which is crucial in preventing employee burn out.
However, it’s interesting to note that only 26% of employees agree with this, indicating a disconnect between employers’ and employees’ perceptions of what constitutes a realistic workload. It may be time for employees to have these difficult conversations with their employers.
RETURN TO OFFICE
While many employees appreciate the benefits of remote work, (in fact, 33% of eCom employees wouldn’t return to the office ever!) the survey still found that a significant portion of employees would return to the office for a handful of reasons and incentives.
Socialising was the top answer at 57%, which suggests that in-person interactions and social connections are still highly valued by many individuals. Loneliness was a big problem for remote workers during the Covid-19 pandemic, especially for those living alone, therefore this result doesn’t come as a surprise.
According to the survey, nearly half (47%) of respondents would consider returning to the office if offered extra holiday allowance, while 34% would do so if their travel expenses were paid.
With many employees feeling the financial strain of the past few years, it’s possible that travel expenses are an added burden that prevents them from returning to the office, and as a result, this could be causing workplace anxieties and added unnecessary stress.
WHAT WE CAN TAKE FROM THESE RESULTS
There are various factors contributing to employees’ mental health and wellbeing struggles, and the survey highlights possible solutions to alleviate these pressures.
With flexible working opportunities and realistic workload taking the top spots, eCommerce companies must continue to listen to their teams and prioritise their mental health and wellbeing needs in order to attract and retain top talent and create a positive and inclusive work environment for all.
