Improving working conditions: a strategic lever for your CSR

CSR: Improving working conditions, a lever for social performance and a tool against turnover

In an increasingly demanding professional context, working conditions play a central role in the performance of companies. Much more than just an asset, improving them has become a strategic necessity. By integrating this approach into their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy, employers can not only reduce the costs related to absenteeism and turnover, but also strengthen employee engagement and well-being. This article explores the actions to be implemented to promote an adapted work environment and the benefits of such an approach.

Absenteeism: a costly and revealing reality

Every year in France, millions of working days are lost due to absenteeism, often linked to unsuitable working conditions. According to the Sapiens Institute, absenteeism costs France more than 100 billion euros per year, or 4.7% of GDP.

According to the Sapiens Institute, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), burnout and stress-related pathologies are among the most common causes. A study reveals that 17% of employees are absent at least once a year for health reasons directly related to their professional environment, while 8% of the working population (INSEE) is affected by severe burnouts. These figures illustrate the extent to which unhappiness at work can have a lasting effect on organizations.

Cognitive overload: an invisible but omnipresent scourge

A noisy, multitasking or poorly arranged environment affects concentration skills and increases stress. This phenomenon has a particular impact on certain profiles, such as adults with ADD, who represent 5% of the population, or employees with sensory hypersensitivity, estimated at 20%. Noise pollution, which is perceived by 52% of employees as an annoyance in the workplace, is also one of the main obstacles to productivity.

The cost of turnover: a significant financial burden

Stressful or inappropriate working conditions lead to frequent departures, with high costs for companies. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), replacing an employee can cost the equivalent of 6 to 9 months of their salary.

For a senior executive, this cost can rise to 213% of their annual salary. In addition, an employee on leave costs the company an average of 13% of their annual salary, not to mention the impact on the remaining teams, which are often overworked to compensate for absences.

International comparison: France, Spain, Sweden, United States

The cost of labour varies significantly between countries, influencing policies to improve working conditions. In 2022, the hourly cost of labour was €39.7 in France, ranking 4th among the countries observed, after Belgium, Sweden and the Netherlands. Spain had an average hourly cost of €23.5, the lowest in the sample.

In the United States, the cost of labor also varies by industry and region, but studies indicate that replacing an employee can cost between 50% and 200% of their annual salary, depending on the position and skill level.

Improving working conditions: concrete levers for action

Faced with these observations, it is becoming imperative to rethink the work environment so that it better meets the needs of employees. Investing in the ergonomics of spaces can prevent common problems such as musculoskeletal disorders or eye strain. The installation of suitable furniture, the reduction of noise pollution with acoustic panels, or optimised lighting are all simple solutions that can make a significant difference. Quiet workspaces, dedicated to concentration, offer a much-needed respite for those who suffer from mental overload. In addition, training managers to spot signs of stress or exhaustion is a key step in early care.

Organizational flexibility is another key lever. By promoting teleworking, offering adapted hours or encouraging disconnection, companies allow their employees to find a balance between professional and personal life. This type of measure considerably reduces stressful journeys and prevents hyperconnection, which is often a source of chronic fatigue.

Attention to mental health must also be central. Psychological support services, stress management or relaxation workshops, as well as regular surveys to assess the teams' feelings are valuable tools to support employees. These actions not only limit psychosocial risks, but also strengthen team cohesion and commitment.

The benefits of a well-being CSR policy

Investing in the right working conditions generates tangible results. By improving working conditions, some companies have managed to reduce absenteeism by 25% to 30%, while increasing the productivity of their teams by 15%. A significant drop in turnover has also been observed, particularly among qualified talent, who appreciate working in an environment that values their well-being.

Conclusion: Well-being and performance, a winning duo

Making working conditions a priority is not only a moral obligation, it is a strategic choice that benefits everyone. By meeting the specific needs of employees, companies increase their attractiveness and reduce the hidden costs associated with malaise. This approach also allows them to improve their competitiveness in a world of work where well-being has become a universal expectation.

If you want to go further, I am at your disposal to explore together the concrete actions that will make your work environments more inclusive and efficient.