Ending Soon! Save 33% on All Access

Struggle to Stay on Task at the Office? A New Study Says You're Not the Only One. Disengaged employees are apparently a global problem.

By Lindsay Friedman

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Shutterstock

Do you find it difficult to stay focused and engaged at the office? If so, you're not the only one.

According to a study published by Steelcase that included more than 12,000 participants, one-third of workers from 17 of the world's most important economies have the same problem.

Related: 6 Scents That Can Transform Your Mood and Productivity

Of the countries ranked in the study from most engaged to least engaged, The U.S. ranked sixth with 40 percent of workers reporting they are engaged, on task and satisfied. Germany had the highest percentage of engaged workers, while France and Turkey had the lowest percentages.

A couple of disengaged employees might not seem like a big deal, but it adds up. The issue costs companies large sums of money as unmotivated workers complete projects at a slow pace and negate the work of productive colleagues.

The study claims to have found a strong correlation between employee engagement and workplace satisfaction. For example, those who are happier at work are more interested in their daily tasks and vice versa. Factors that helped researchers come to this conclusion were based on employee responses regarding connection, pride, motivation, achievement and culture. Other factors that determined engagement and workplace satisfaction included accommodations, technology, mobility, movement throughout the day, access and free expression. Privacy and control proved to be critical, as well.

Related: 5 Ways Creativity Leads to Productivity

The overall point? Employers who meet the needs of their employees will see more engagement and productivity.

In other words, a happy employee makes for a happy employer.

Lindsay Friedman

Staff writer. Frequently covers franchise news and food trends.

Lindsay Friedman is a staff writer at Entrepreneur.com.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Business News

'Creators Left So Much Money on the Table': Kickstarter's CEO Reveals the Story Behind the Company's Biggest Changes in 15 Years

In an interview with Entrepreneur, Kickstarter CEO Everette Taylor explains the decision-making behind the changes, how he approaches leading Kickstarter, and his advice for future CEOs.

Business Ideas

87 Service Business Ideas to Start Today

Get started in this growing industry, with options that range from IT consulting to childcare.

Business Models

How to Become an AI-Centric Business (and Why It's Crucial for Long-Term Success)

Learn the essential steps to integrate AI at the core of your operations and stay competitive in an ever-evolving landscape.

Marketing

5 Steps to Preparing an Engaging Industry Presentation

You can make a great impression and generate interest with an exciting, informative presentation. Find out my five secrets to creating an industry presentation guaranteed to wow.