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Exploring Workers' Well-being in Japan

In recent findings from the Global Talent Barometer conducted by ManpowerGroup, significant trends in the well-being and job satisfaction of Japanese workers are highlighted. The survey targets over 13,000 workers across 19 countries, including 502 from Japan. This year marks the second round of the study, aiming to dive deeper into what employees seek and their sentiments regarding work.

Understanding the Global Talent Barometer

The Global Talent Barometer serves as an indicator for the well-being, job satisfaction, and confidence of workers worldwide. It assesses three core themes:

1. Well-being: Measuring purpose and meaning, everyday stress levels, value alignment, and work-life balance.
2. Job Satisfaction: Evaluating contentment with current jobs, employment stability, confidence in job transitions, and trust in supervisors.
3. Confidence: Assessing career development opportunities, chances for growth, skills and experience, as well as familiarity with the latest technologies.

Well-being Insights

In the recent study, the global well-being index stands at 67%, while Japan scores lower at 43%. Notably, there is a rare increase in three specific areas for Japanese respondents compared to the previous study:

• - The percentage of workers feeling minimal or no stress rose by one point.
• - The alignment with the company's vision and values increased by two points.
• - Perception of receiving adequate support for work-life balance improved by one point.

Job Satisfaction Trends

The job satisfaction index globally is 62%, with Japan slightly behind at 52%. All four categories in Japan showed an upward trend this year:

• - Satisfaction with current jobs, and a low probability of self-initiated departures in the next six months, increased by three points.
• - Employment security over the next six months also rose by one point.
• - Confidence in finding another job within six months increased by three points.
• - Trust in supervisors for career development improved significantly, increasing by seven points.

Confidence Levels

Globally, the confidence index is at a robust 76%, whereas Japan's score lags at 46%, remaining stagnant. However, the index for two specific areas improved:

• - Gaining opportunities to develop the skills and experience necessary for achieving career goals increased by two points.
• - Confidence in possessing the requisite skills and experience for one's duties also rose by two points.

On the flip side, two aspects showed a decline:

• - The opportunity for promotions or transfers within the organization reduced by two points.
• - Confidence in having access to up-to-date technology needed for one’s job decreased by one point.

Insights from ManpowerGroup Leadership

Becky Frankiewicz, President and Chief Strategy Officer at ManpowerGroup, noted that AI's advancements are pushing organizations towards transformation for survival and growth. While technology is often seen as the core of such change, she emphasizes that the real essence lies within the people. Preparing for an increasingly digital landscape involves acquiring next-gen skills, bridging the talent supply-demand gap, and harnessing the potential of oneself and those around them.

The survey results reinforce the notion that employees desire more than just a job. They seek a better balance, enhanced flexibility, deeper human interaction, and, above all, opportunities for growth.

More Information About the Global Talent Barometer

To access the full report, click here.

Survey Overview

The survey was conducted between March 14 and April 11, 2025, by in-house teams. It targeted workers in 19 countries, capturing 13,771 valid responses, with 502 from Japan. This data was gathered through web-based questionnaires.

About ManpowerGroup

ManpowerGroup has provided integrated human resource services related to the hiring, assessment, development, and management of human talent for 75 years, operating under its brands worldwide, including Manpower®, Experis®, and Talent Solutions®. They continue to support organizations navigating the evolving world of work and have been recognized for diversity and inclusivity. ManpowerGroup was named one of the 'World's Most Ethical Companies' for the 16th time in 2025. For more information, visit www.manpowergroup.jp.