Four families of countries with respect to well-being at work

In order to classify the countries surveyed as part of the 2016 Edenred-Ipsos Barometer, we undertook a statistical analysis with the aim of positioning the various countries in relation to one another. We took care to neutralize cultural biases related to the way they usually respond to surveys. For example, Japanese people have traditionally been more critical than Indians, who conversely, give more positive responses. The analysis identified four main types of countries.

First of all, there are countries for which employee well-being is characterized by higher scores for environment-related items. Environment refers to their equipment, the clarity of their missions and the balance between private life and work. Here we have Japan, Turkey, China, Italy and Poland.

​The second category includes India, Mexico, Brazil and Chile. These countries have higher scores for all items related to well-being at work, emotion in particular. This involves enjoying coming to work in the morning, interest in their job or its stimulating nature, and confidence in their professional future.

Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States make up the third group. The results for the three pillars of well-being at work are more balanced but are characterized by a lack of emotion.
Lastly, as with the previous profile, Belgium, France and Germany are characterized by a better balance between the three pillars, although there is a lack of appreciation. Appreciation is respect shown by management, the management of skills, etc.

Julia Pironon, Leadership & Engagement Advisory Practice Director, Ipsos 

(*): independently of the 'way in which they answer surveys' (after neutralization of cultural biases)
(**): ranking of countries based on the average overall well-being at work score

Source: 2016 Edenred-Ipsos Barometer on the well-being at work of employees around the world (14,400 employees surveyed in 15 countries)

Learn more about Edenred-IPSOS barometer