Local study shines light on quality of work in Brantford and area

(PRESS RELEASE - Aug. 28, 2023) – There are significant differences between how local employees and employers view what makes a workplace a good place to work, says a new study.

The study found that, in general, employers excel at providing a positive work environment and good overall working conditions, but they sometimes come up short in the eyes of employees when it comes to wages, skills building and career advancement This is one of the key findings from Examining Quality of Work in Grand Erie, published by the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie in collaboration with the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Centre.

“Having strong quality of work is a major factor in attracting and retaining employees,” said report author Wynona Mendes, Research Lead with the Workforce Planning Board. The Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie is one of 26 nonprofit organizations in Ontario that play a leadership role in labour force planning. The Workforce Planning Board is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

“The pandemic has shown that many people are prepared to change jobs and careers – perhaps more than ever before - to find a workplace they are happier in and offers better pay, working conditions and worklife balance.” The study assessed the needs, gaps and opportunities for improving quality of work, a term that encompasses things such as wages, benefits, job security, chance for promotion, access to skills development, and workplace culture.

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The study gathered input from more than 480 job seekers and employees, as well as 160 employers, in Brantford, Six Nations, Mississaugas of the Credit, and Brant, Haldimand and Norfolk counties.

The Examining Quality of Work in Grand Erie report is available on the Workforce Planning Board’s website at wwwworkforceplanningboard org/quality-of-work

The study’s goal was to deepen the understanding of how quality of work is perceived and experienced, and to investigate what supports employers may need to enhance working conditions.

“One of the major workforce shifts we’ve seen in the last few years is more emphasis on the mental health and wellness of employees,” Mendes said. “Employers are recognizing that these factors have a direct impact on employee performance and productivity, and many are adopting innovative practices – such as providing longer breaks and remote working – to support their workers’well-being ”