Employees express the greatest contentment in their roles within the public sector
The latest EY Job Study sheds light on the employment landscape in Germany, revealing intriguing trends in job satisfaction and motivation across various sectors.
According to the report, job satisfaction among employees in Germany has stabilised at a relatively low level, with 34% describing themselves as completely satisfied with their work situation. However, contrary to initial expectations, the study indicates that job satisfaction has not decreased since 2023. Interestingly, job satisfaction has even shown a slight increase, as suggested by the EY study.
One sector that stands out is the public sector, where motivation levels are significantly higher. The study reveals that 24% of employees in the public sector are highly motivated, a figure that represents a slight increase since the last survey in 2023. This high motivation might challenge stereotypes about the public sector, as suggested by Nicole Dietl, Partner in Assurance and Talent Leader at EY.
Executives, in particular, exhibit high levels of motivation, with 67% describing themselves as highly motivated. Job security and 'work-life balance' offered by the public sector may contribute to these higher motivation levels among its employees.
In contrast, job satisfaction and motivation in the private sector and at associations and other institutions remain low, with only 17% of employees being highly motivated. This discrepancy could be due to the ongoing economic crisis, which the EY study suggests is affecting employee morale.
The survey by EY involved 2000 employees, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the current employment landscape in Germany. Notably, older respondents (over 65 years old) exhibit exceptionally high levels of job satisfaction, with 58% describing themselves as completely satisfied.
Despite often lacking motivation and satisfaction, 93% of employees in Germany view their own work positively, contributing to the company's success. This positive outlook, combined with the factors inferred from broader insights into public sector governance and employee motivation trends in Europe, suggests that several contextual factors are likely increasing motivation and job satisfaction of public sector employees in Germany.
These factors include higher trust in public institutions and enhanced public service delivery, EU-driven focus on skills enhancement, lifelong learning, and social inclusion policies, and modernization efforts and digital tools improving workplace efficiency and reducing bureaucratic burdens. These elements create a more motivating work environment, fostering job satisfaction among public sector workers since 2023. For precise data on Germany, consulting specific national government or research publications would be required.
In the top management, almost everyone surveyed (97%) agrees that they make an important contribution to the company's success. However, the current trend of job cuts in large private employers might not be a concern for public sector employees, who often benefit from greater job security.
In conclusion, the EY Job Study offers valuable insights into the employment landscape in Germany, highlighting the unique dynamics within the public sector. The study underscores the importance of factors such as trust in public institutions, EU initiatives, and modernization efforts in fostering job satisfaction and motivation among public sector employees.
- The EY study indicates a notable difference in motivation levels between the private sector and the public sector, with 24% of public sector employees being highly motivated compared to 17% in the private sector.
- A career in finance, business, or other sectors within the public sector may offer not only greater job security but also higher motivation, as suggested by the latest EY Job Study.
