For many years, social scientists have tried to quantify the underlying causes of happiness.

In the workplace, the topic is relevant because there is a lot of research linking employee happiness to positive business outcomes and retention.

So, what causes employees to experience happiness in the workplace?

From the agent/employee perspective, here are four of the drivers researchers have identified that lead to happiness in the workplace:

An agent’s trust in their company’s leadership. Is my manager really looking out for my success?

A culture where agents are encouraged to share ideas and individual opinions.  Are my ideas valued by those around me?

A workplace where co-workers feel like family or friends. Do I have friends at work I can trust and reach out to for support?

Benefits customized to meet an agent’s needs.Does my manager understand and flex to meet my needs?

Take a quick inventory.

Would your agents say these characteristics are well-represented in your company or team?

If not, start thinking through some changes necessary to make these traits part of your identity.

Retention starts with creating a place where agents experience happiness in their day-to-day work.

These are the places where high performing agents want to land and stay.