Workplace happiness in architectural companies in the city of Valencia: a gender comparison

Abstract

IntroductionHow to make work life increasingly meaningful and ensuring that business actions aim at improving quality of life is a trending topic. Yet, it has not often been studied within architectural firms, that play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals, especially those related to equity, equality, and the creation of pleasant work environments. This study aims to identify whether there are gender differences in the perception and levels of workplace happiness of individuals working within architectural companies in Valencia (Spain).MethodsA mixed methodology based on qualitative and quantitative data has been applied with a sample of 201 workers from 60 practices.ResultsParticipants perceive themselves as flourishing and quite happy at work. Yet, there are gender differences in the factors that motivate workplace happiness. While women prioritize the work environment, their colleagues and teams, men point out to career development. Thus, recognition, appreciation, feeling valued and goals and achievements are among the main drivers of men’s workplace happiness. In addition, women tend to experience negative emotions such as anxiety, anger, or sadness more frequently than men. Given these results, architectural companies face a considerable challenge.DiscussionThe research examines the relationship between workplace happiness and social sustainability in architectural firms, highlighting the importance of human capital for competitiveness. To promote sustainability and well-being at work, it is crucial to understand how organizational decisions impact employee well-being and to know the differences in perceptions of workplace happiness between men and women. This analysis may be of interest to the architectural firms object of this research.