New findings out over the last week have shown that around 75% of workers have never spoken to their manager regarding financial wellbeing. The study carried out by Aviva - within their 2022 Working Lives report - polled 1,002 employees and 203 employers in April. 

Findings
The report revealed that workers aged between 18 and 24 were the most likely to have spoken to their line manager about financial wellbeing, amounting to 39%, whilst just 12% of 45–54-year-olds would. At the top of the list for employers and employees is financial concerns, and 35% of employers polled said the cost of living was the principal worry, whilst 34% of staff said salary was their main concern at work. That said, despite the current fears, 79% of staff said they were positive about their firm’s financial future, a rise from 75% five years ago. Whereas just 40% of employees claimed to be optimistic about their personal financial future, a reduction from 44% five years ago. According to Aviva’s director of workplace savings and retirement, Emma Douglas, talking about finances with employers was “one of the last workplace taboos”. She added: “Young workers are clearly breaking down the stigma associated with talking to the boss about the ‘m’ word, but it is important that all generations of workers feel they can talk about their financial wellbeing with their employer.”

Other employee priorities 
The findings also revealed other staff priorities included having a job they love (15%); flexibility (13%); working within a quality team (5%); and having a good relationship with colleagues (5%). According to Lisa Seagroatt, managing director at HR Fit for Purpose, bosses should maintain regular contact with staff and be transparent in terms of business performance, which could boost engagement. “By encouraging an open and regular dialogue, this can pave the way towards easing some of the pressures and worries employees will be experiencing”, she stated. The poll also found that 57% of employees said they were happier with flexible and remote working, with this figure higher among women at 63% compared to men at 52%.