We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: employees are not just resources to be squeezed for ideas, deadlines, and endless “it’s urgent” requests. Employees are people — with emotions, limits, drained batteries, and (yes!) a deep need for balance. And the good news? More and more companies in Romania are starting to get it.
Beyond Fruit and Funny Breakroom Banter: Real Care for Real People
According to a 2024 study by EXEC-EDU, 60% of Romanian companies surveyed have already implemented some form of employee well-being programs. And no — we’re not just talking about apples at reception or the occasional joke at the coffee machine. We’re talking about genuine care for people’s mental, physical, and emotional health.
So what exactly does “well-being at work” mean in practice? Well, the answers are refreshingly diverse. Social events and team buildings top the list — present in over 72% of responses. Nothing bonds a team quite like a rope-pulling contest, quiz night, or inside jokes born out of shared chaos. But beyond fun and games, companies are beginning to focus on mental well-being too: psychological counseling and support were mentioned in 43% of cases and emotional intelligence and relationship management workshops in nearly 41%.
And since most of us spend 8 hours a day sitting down, physical health is becoming part of the picture as well. So, one-third of companies now offer fitness-related benefits — from gym memberships to group workout sessions. Posture correction programs appear in nearly 30% (understandably so — many of us resemble twisted letters after a day at our desks). Initiatives around mindfulness, career planning, and hobby workshops also make the list, with participation ranging from 18% to 25%.
Well-being at Work: Still Rare, but Rising
Here’s the catch: only 18% of companies report having an integrated, holistic well-being program — something that ties these efforts into a real, thoughtful strategy. The rest? They’re either testing the waters, throwing in the occasional idea, or just beginning their journey. Shorter Fridays? Still more of a dream — with just 2% of companies putting that into practice.
But beyond the numbers, there’s a shift in tone. We’re starting to change the conversation from “Will it be done by tomorrow?” to “Are you okay? Do you have someone to talk to? Do you have time for yourself?” Real well-being is about building a workspace where people can breathe. Where they feel heard, seen, supported. Where they go home whole — not worn out.
At ConnectING Careers, that’s exactly what we want to encourage: A new way of working, where well-being isn’t some optional benefit for the future – but part of the culture, from the start. So if you want to see what companies truly invest in their people — and how the future of work is being shaped – we’ll see you this October, at ROMAERO.
Until then, take a breath, and take care of yourself. ❤️
