A groundbreaking study by Nationwide, in collaboration with the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), has illuminated the profound impact of pet-friendly workplaces on employee satisfaction and company success. The research reveals compelling data showcasing that companies embracing pets in the workplace, or offering benefits like Nationwide Insurance Pet, experience significantly higher levels of employee engagement, retention, and positive workplace relationships.
This comprehensive study, surveying over 2,000 U.S. full-time employees, draws a stark contrast between pet-friendly and non-pet-friendly work environments. The findings resoundingly demonstrate that integrating pets into the workplace culture is not just a perk, but a strategic advantage for businesses seeking a thriving and dedicated workforce.
Key Insights from the Nationwide & HABRI Pet-Friendly Workplace Study
The Nationwide/HABRI study meticulously examined various aspects of employee experience, revealing substantial differences across pet-friendly and non-pet-friendly workplaces. Here are the key highlights:
Elevated Employee Engagement & Rewarding Work:
The study highlights a remarkable difference in employee engagement. A staggering 91% of employees in pet-friendly companies reported feeling engaged with their work, compared to just 65% in non-pet-friendly settings. Furthermore, the sense of work being rewarding and exciting was significantly higher in pet-friendly environments, with 83% of employees agreeing, versus a mere 46% in non-pet-friendly workplaces. This data underscores how nationwide insurance pet and similar pet-inclusive policies can contribute to a more motivated and enthusiastic workforce.
Enhanced Employee Attraction & Retention:
Pet-friendly workplaces clearly hold a strong appeal for employees. An impressive 88% of employees in pet-friendly companies would recommend their employer to others, while only 51% in non-pet-friendly companies would do the same. This attractiveness translates directly into retention, with 88% of employees in pet-friendly companies planning to stay for at least another year, compared to 73% in non-pet-friendly environments. Moreover, job security and loyalty are also significantly boosted; 72% of employees in pet-friendly workplaces would turn down a job offer with similar pay from another company, versus only 44% in non-pet-friendly workplaces. Offering benefits like nationwide insurance pet can be a powerful tool in attracting and retaining top talent.
Stronger Workplace Relationships & Well-being:
Beyond engagement and retention, pet-friendly environments foster better interpersonal dynamics. Employees in pet-friendly companies reported significantly more positive relationships with both supervisors (52% vs. 14%) and coworkers (53% vs. 19%). This improved relationship quality is coupled with a greater sense of overall well-being. A remarkable 91% of employees in pet-friendly companies feel their company supports their physical health and wellness, and equally as high (91%) feel supported in their mental well-being. In contrast, these figures drop to 59% and 53% respectively in non-pet-friendly workplaces. This emphasizes the holistic benefits of pet-friendly policies, potentially including nationwide insurance pet, on employee health and morale.
Reduced Absenteeism:
Finally, the study touched upon presenteeism, revealing that 85% of employees in pet-friendly companies rarely miss work for well-being or recuperation, compared to 77% in non-pet-friendly companies. While the difference is less dramatic than other metrics, it still suggests a positive correlation between pet-friendly workplaces and employee reliability.
The Strategic Advantage of Pet-Friendly Benefits like Nationwide Insurance Pet
Scott Liles, president and chief pet insurance officer for Nationwide, aptly summarizes the study’s implications: “The results of the Nationwide/HABRI study clearly indicate a significantly higher level of employee engagement, retention, attraction and presenteeism among employees that work in pet friendly work environments.” He further emphasizes the financial benefits, stating that “adding pet friendly benefits, such as allowing pets in the workplace or offering pet health insurance as a voluntary benefit, can provide significant savings to a company’s bottom line” due to reduced employee turnover costs.
Steven Feldman, executive director of HABRI, highlights the emotional connection pet owners have with their animals: “Pet owners increasingly think of their pets as members of the family. When employers offer pet friendly benefits, it sends an important signal that the company cares about every member of the family, even the ones with four legs.”
Nationwide pet insurance stands at the forefront of this movement, providing a valuable voluntary employee benefit that aligns with the growing trend of pet-friendly workplaces. By offering nationwide insurance pet, companies not only demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being but also gain a competitive edge in attracting and retaining a highly engaged and satisfied workforce.
Nationwide: A Leader in Pet Health Insurance
With over 700,000 insured pets, Nationwide is recognized as the leading provider of pet health insurance in the United States. Nearly half of Fortune 500 companies and over 6,000 U.S. companies overall offer nationwide insurance pet as a voluntary employee benefit. This widespread adoption underscores the value and relevance of pet insurance in today’s employee benefits landscape. Nationwide’s extensive experience and reach make them a trusted partner for companies looking to implement or enhance their pet-friendly policies.
Conclusion: Embracing Pet-Friendly Workplaces for a Brighter Future
The Nationwide/HABRI study provides compelling evidence for the multifaceted benefits of pet-friendly workplaces. From increased employee engagement and retention to improved relationships and well-being, the data clearly demonstrates the positive impact of integrating pets into the work environment or offering benefits like nationwide insurance pet. As companies increasingly prioritize employee satisfaction and seek strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, embracing pet-friendly policies emerges as a smart and compassionate approach. Consider exploring how nationwide insurance pet can benefit your employees and contribute to a more positive and productive workplace culture.
For more information about Nationwide pet insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit petinsurance.com.
