A survey of 1,024 UK workers by workplace incentives and rewards provider One4all Rewards, and published in The 2018 Happiness Survey, surveyed employees from different age groups, genders and industries, asking them to score how happy they are in their current roles out of 10.

The data revealed that the trades industry currently boasts some of the happiest employees – with staff in this sector rating their happiness as a glowing 7.41 out of 10, compared to the national average of 6.81 out of 10.

And as many as 1 in 2 (52%) trades workers scored their workplace happiness level as 8 or more out of 10.

Unsurprisingly, trades workers felt it was the remuneration they receive for the work they do – such as salary and wages – that plays the most important (59%) role in their happiness.

But softer factors such as the nature of the work that they do (35%) and the relationships workers have with their colleagues (30%) followed in second and third place.

Trades workers also stated that their workload (24%) and the relationships they have with management (22%) play a key part in their happiness in their current role.

Alan Smith, UK managing director at One4all Rewards, said: “It is interesting to see how happiness levels can vary and that those working in the trades sector are amongst the UK’s happiest. Despite expectations that salary is the main driver of workplace happiness, the nature of the work they do also plays a key factor in their morale at work.

“Clearly, the trades workforce recognises that money is not everything. In order to maintain or significantly improve morale, it is important for employers within the trades sector to take note of what drives individuals in their workforce.”

One4all Rewards are industry experts in benefits and rewards. Working with over 6,000 businesses of all sizes nationwide, One4all Rewards helps to transform customer and employee relationships through successful rewards and incentive schemes.

The top 10 factors that play a key part in trades workers happiness