A new Appreciation Index study from Reward Gateway | Edenred finds Brits lag behind in workplace appreciation, with the UK reporting the lowest Appreciation Index scores (61.8 out of 100) against the U.S. and Australia, and below the global average of 65. In comparison, the U.S. scored 66.3, and Australia scored 66.8 in the survey conducted on nationally representative samples in the UK, the U.S., and Australia.

In the UK, men felt more appreciated in their workplace than women (80% of men vs 70% of women), while their Australian and American counterparts reported less significant differences between gender. This suggests there is a gap in the British workplace around equal appreciation, especially between genders. Appreciation levels also varied across different sectors, with employees in technology, financial services and professional services generally reporting higher-than-average appreciation levels. On the other hand, those in sectors such as hospitality and tourism, healthcare, education, transport and logistics and the public sector recorded lower feelings of appreciation.

88% of British employees reported they work harder when they are appreciated for the work they do. This is followed by increased engagement (91%) and higher satisfaction with their job (92%). Being appreciated even made them feel more loyal to their employer (88%), while others said it made them want to take on extra tasks (73%) – highlighting a hidden workforce potential to increase productivity, engagement and job satisfaction.

The biggest driver of appreciation is managerial recognition, despite only two-thirds of Brits feeling they are recognised by their manager (66%). Rewards for hard work and a sense of belonging follow in second and third place. This highlights a need for hard work to be recognised, especially when employees are putting in extra effort beyond what is typically required.

In the UK, employees reported lower levels of support compared to those in the U.S. and Australia. British employees also reported receiving less praise than their American and Australian counterparts. Those in larger organisations felt less supported than those in smaller and mid-sized companies – a pattern that didn’t emerge when comparing seniority levels in the U.S. and Australia.

Nebel Crowhurst, Chief Appreciation Officer, at Reward Gateway comments: “It’s important that British companies invest more time into their employees, adopting a multi-level approach that nurtures appreciation and investing in building a culture that values individuals not only for their achievements but for who they are. Creating a happier workplace does more than just boost the overall mood of your workers – it increases productivity, retention and improves mental wellbeing. Companies must prioritise appreciation as a fundamental part of their workplace strategy, rather than treating it as an afterthought. Investing in this approach is not just advantageous. It is vital for staying competitive and fostering an environment where employees are motivated to give their best.”