Resilience in the workplace today goes beyond bouncing back; it’s about fostering environments where employees feel genuinely cared for and supported. The Best Workplaces™ Caring 2024 list highlights 20 organizations in Switzerland that have embraced this ethos, proving that a culture of care drives both employee engagement and long-term organizational success. Based on the insights of 76,900 employee responses, these workplaces demonstrate that a compassionate workplace isn’t just a perk—it’s central to building resilient, thriving organizations.
Why a Caring Workplace Culture Leads to Resilience
A caring workplace culture fosters trust, innovation, and psychological safety—key ingredients for building resilience. When employees feel cared for, they are more likely to engage fully, take ownership of their work, and contribute creatively. This not only increases job satisfaction and retention but also enables companies to adapt to challenges more effectively.
Caring organizations recognize that their people are their most valuable asset, and by prioritizing well-being, they create environments where employees can flourish, even in uncertain times.
What Sets the Best Caring Workplaces™ Apart?
The data speaks for itself: the Best Caring Workplaces™ outperform typical workplaces in Switzerland by an impressive 44 percent points in the Caring dimension of the Trust Index, a clear indicator that care translates into stronger, more resilient workplace cultures.
Here are some key areas where the Best Caring Workplaces™ excel:
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Taking Time Off: 95% of employees feel comfortable taking time off when needed, compared to just 62% at typical workplaces—a 53% improvement.
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Unique Benefits: 84% say their workplace offers special perks, marking a 62% increase over others.
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Mental & Emotional Health: 90% feel they work in a healthy environment, compared to 59% in typical workplaces—a 53% improvement.
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Management Care: 90% feel their management truly cares for them, not just as employees, but as people—53% more than in typical workplaces.
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Work-Life Balance: 86% report feeling encouraged to maintain work-life balance, a 48% improvement over others.
These metrics highlight how caring practices foster employee engagement and build resilience. Now, let’s explore how the Best Workplaces™ Caring 2024 translate these principles into everyday practices, through the lens of their unique approaches.
How the Best Caring Workplaces Bring These Practices to Life
Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: Essential for Employee Well-Being
A healthy work-life balance, supported by flexibility in scheduling and time off, is essential for preventing burnout and maintaining engagement. Employees who have control over their time are more likely to stay productive and motivated.
At Banque Raiffeisen Broye Vully Lacs, flexibility is at the heart of their culture. Employees benefit from extended weekends and flexible hours, ensuring they can maintain a healthy work-life balance and return to work recharged.
Idéative empowers staff with annualized working hours, giving them the freedom to manage personal commitments.
Similarly, Lémanis offers adaptable schedules that allow employees to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.
AbbVie takes it further, offering flexible work arrangements and sabbaticals every five years, encouraging employees to rest and reset for long-term success.
Unique Benefits That Reflect Genuine Care
Providing unique benefits is another hallmark of a caring culture. Beyond standard compensation, these perks show that the company values its employees’ individual needs, whether through health and wellness initiatives or personal growth opportunities.
At Alohi, unique benefits such as monthly team-building events, extended lunch breaks for activities like exercise, and an annual company retreat provide opportunities for employees to unwind and connect.
ALMAT offers employees extra vacation days, flexibility in home office arrangements, and the use of company vehicles for personal needs, underscoring the company’s commitment to employee well-being
Psychological Safety: The Foundation for Innovation and Trust
Psychological safety is crucial in any caring workplace. When employees feel safe to express themselves and take risks without fear of repercussions, it fosters innovation and strengthens the company’s overall resilience.
At goSecurity, mental and emotional well-being is a top priority. Flexible working hours and overtime compensation, coupled with psychological support, help create a workplace where employees feel safe and supported.
At M&S Software Engineering, an open-door policy ensures employees can raise concerns freely, while comfortable, modern office spaces contribute to a supportive work environment."
At Idéative, a focus on psychological safety is reinforced by regular celebrations of employee milestones, ensuring everyone feels recognized and appreciated.
Genuine Leadership That Cares for Employees
True leadership is about more than managing tasks; it’s about genuinely caring for the growth and well-being of employees. Leaders who invest in their teams beyond the job role build stronger relationships, fostering loyalty and a deeper sense of belonging.
At Banque Raiffeisen Broye Vully Lacs, management takes a genuine interest in employees, fostering open communication and appreciation that ensures everyone feels valued.
At goSecurity, leaders regularly engage with employees, creating a supportive atmosphere where open communication is encouraged and employees feel heard.
Building a Culture of Care and Resilience
The Best Workplaces™ Caring 2024 demonstrate that a caring culture isn’t just about offering perks—it’s about integrating care into the very fabric of the organization. By prioritizing flexibility, psychological safety, unique benefits, and genuine leadership, these organizations have created environments where employees feel supported and motivated to bring their best selves to work.
Discover the Full List of Best Caring Workplaces
Ready to learn more? Discover the List to explore how these organizations are setting new standards for workplace care and resilience.
