89% of employees in Malta consider their job stressful

A recent report by MISCO has revealed that 89 per cent of employees in Malta find their job stressful either at times or most of the time.

This statistic underscores a broader issue concerning employee mental well-being, as 86 per cent of respondents reported experiencing poor mental health related to work, including stress and anxiety. The primary stressors cited include heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and a lack of support from employers.

The findings also highlight an increase in workplace bullying and harassment, with 13 per cent of employees reporting such experiences, marking a worrying rise in incidence. Despite this, there has been an overall positive shift in respondents’ emotional well-being, with lower levels of negative emotions experienced in the past year. However, concerns such as excessive fear, social withdrawal, and erratic sleeping and eating habits remain prevalent among employees.

The changing dynamics of Malta’s labour market

As the Maltese labour market continues to evolve, HR professionals are facing new challenges. Staff retention, development, and supporting leadership teams are now at the forefront of HR strategies. Salary demands remain the most pressing issue, with financial constraints cited as the key obstacle to HR effectiveness.

A notable trend is the increasing reliance on non-Maltese workers, with 24 per cent of companies stating that more than half of their workforce consists of foreign employees, compared to 18 per cent last year. This shift signals an ongoing transformation in the local job market and the necessity for organisations to adapt to a more diverse workforce.

Employee engagement and workplace satisfaction

Despite the high levels of stress, employee engagement remains strong. According to the report, 90 per cent of respondents feel a strong connection between their work and their company’s outcomes, and 83 per cent feel part of a team working towards common goals.

Additionally, 80 per cent of employees look forward to coming to work, with satisfaction levels being particularly high among older generations. The majority of respondents (86 per cent) stated that they are either “very satisfied” or “fairly satisfied” with their current job.

When it comes to job selection, employees prioritise the following factors:

• Career growth and development
• Better compensation
• Recognition and support from their employer
• Flexible work arrangements
• Work-life balance

Training and skills development

There is a significant emphasis on technical skills in workplace training, with verbal communication emerging as the most critical skill in today’s workforce. Interestingly, the importance of verbal communication skills has tripled since last year according to employees. However, employers still view it as the skill most lacking among workers.

While 58 per cent of employers believe that employees should apply for roles even if they lack certain skills, only 28 per cent of employees share this sentiment. Moreover, 17 per cent of employees express no interest in receiving soft skills training, despite growing industry demand for these capabilities. The preference for accredited training programmes has also increased by 13 per cent from last year.

Internet usage and online behaviours

The report also sheds light on the digital behaviours of Malta’s workforce. 41 per cent of respondents spend between one and three hours daily on the internet for non-work-related activities. The adoption of online banking and bill payments continues to rise, as does the dependence on navigation apps like Google Maps.

When it comes to online consumption habits:

• Gen Z (16-24) is the most likely group to watch video content.
• Online shopping is most common among those aged 25 to 34.
• Individuals aged 55 and older are the least likely to shop online.

What drives career changes?

For job seekers in Malta, the primary motivation for seeking new employment opportunities is better compensation and career advancement. Other key considerations include company culture, flexible work arrangements, and employee recognition.

Interestingly, social media and recruitment agencies have emerged as the top resources for job searches, while the majority of candidates prefer to apply via email or company websites. Additionally, speaking with a recruiter remains an essential step for many job seekers when considering potential employers.

A nation at a crossroads: Economic outlook and financial stability

Despite workplace stress and financial pressures, 83 per cent of respondents believe their life is currently heading in the right direction.

However, the economic outlook remains mixed:

• 30 per cent believe their financial situation has worsened over the past year.
• 21 per cent report an improvement in their financial status.
• 49 per cent state that their financial position has remained unchanged.