Employee Retention 2x Higher for Well-Rested Employees vs. Poor Sleepers

In a world where employee turnover is a constant concern for businesses, a Gallup study has shed light on an unexpected factor that could significantly impact retention rates: sleep quality.

The study, which examined the link between sleep and workplace productivity, revealed a startling correlation between an employee's sleep quality and their likelihood to change jobs. This finding has far-reaching implications for both employers and employees alike.

The Results: Poor Sleepers More Likely to Leave Their Jobs and Miss Work

According to the Gallup poll, employees with good or great sleep changed jobs at an average turnover rate of 17.5%. In contrast, the turnover rate for employees with poor sleep was 27%. This shows that employees with poor sleep are about 1.5 times more likely to leave their jobs compared to those who sleep well (27% vs 17.5%). In other words, good sleepers are more likely to stay with their current employer.

The report also found that poor sleepers report more than double the rate of unplanned absenteeism.

Why This Matters

1. Cost Savings: High turnover rates are expensive for companies. By focusing on employee sleep health, businesses could potentially halve their turnover rates, leading to significant cost savings in recruitment and training.

2. Productivity Boost: The study also found that poor sleep is linked to billions in lost productivity. Well-rested employees are not only more likely to stay but are also more productive while they're at work.

3. Employee Well-being: Prioritizing sleep health demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, which can improve overall job satisfaction and company culture.

What Can Employers Do?

1. Educate: Provide resources and workshops on the importance of good sleep hygiene.

2. Flexible Schedules: Consider offering flexible work hours to accommodate different sleep patterns.

3. Wellness Programs: Implement wellness programs that emphasize sleep health or include offerings like Chorus Sleep to provide best in class sleep support for your employees.

4. Work-Life Balance: Encourage a culture that respects off-hours and vacation time.

In conclusion, the link between sleep quality and employee retention is clear. By investing in their employees' sleep health, companies can potentially double their retention rates, boost productivity, and create a more satisfied workforce. It's a win-win situation that proves sometimes the best business strategy is simply a good night's sleep.