Large Fraunhofer survey among employees – Above-average satisfaction in nationwide comparison
South Westphalia is one of the most attractive employer regions in Germany. This is the key finding of a comprehensive study on employer attractiveness. It was conducted by the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO on behalf of Südwestfalen Agentur GmbH as part of the project “Arbeitgeberschmiede Südwestfalen” (Employer Forge South Westphalia). The results are intended to benefit participating companies, as well as support regional marketing efforts to further strengthen South Westphalia’s profile.
A total of 2,216 employees from 60 companies across various industries in South Westphalia took part in the online survey. To contextualize the results, Fraunhofer also surveyed an additional 5,149 people nationwide in a representative comparative study. The result is clear: in most of the examined criteria, South Westphalia performs statistically significantly above the German average.
Higher satisfaction, stronger commitment, clear values
Employees in South Westphalia are, on average, more satisfied with their jobs than employees nationwide. Emotional attachment to their companies is also stronger. In addition, employees identify more closely with the goals and values of their employers than those in other parts of Germany.
Particularly noteworthy: employees believe their values and personal skills align very well with their actual roles. This alignment is more pronounced in South Westphalia than the national average—an important factor for motivation, performance, and long-term retention.
Another strong feature of the region is its organizational culture: employees attribute a particularly high level of family orientation to employers in South Westphalia. Furthermore, openness to change and social responsibility play an above-average role for employees.
Opportunities for further development
However, the Fraunhofer study also highlights areas for improvement: training and development opportunities are viewed somewhat more critically in South Westphalia compared to the national average. Expanding professional development and continuing education programs offers concrete opportunities for companies to further enhance their attractiveness as employers.
Solid data foundation – 20 “golden tickets” available for companies
For the first time, the survey provides a scientifically sound and reliable data basis on employer attractiveness in South Westphalia and for the participating companies. Each company received an individual and anonymized evaluation. The results show companies which strengths they can communicate effectively and where there is room for improvement.
Due to the positive response, 20 additional “golden tickets” are now available for companies in the region that would like to use the survey instrument. Interested companies can contact Südwestfalen Agentur GmbH until early May 2026.
South Westphalia sets benchmarks – Participation campaign planned
Under the umbrella of “Arbeitgeberschmiede Südwestfalen,” the regional marketing team of Südwestfalen Agentur GmbH is now planning further measures to position South Westphalia as a top employer region—including a participation campaign for regional employers. On behalf of the region, the agency implements numerous initiatives to attract skilled workers to the strong economic area of South Westphalia. The positive study results help sharpen the region’s profile. They send a strong signal both internally and externally: South Westphalia is not only industrially and economically strong, but also an attractive place to work with value-driven, family-friendly, and committed companies.
The “Arbeitgeberschmiede Südwestfalen” aims to strengthen and position South Westphalia as a top employer region. The project is designed as an agile open-innovation initiative and is open to all interested parties. It is implemented by Südwestfalen Agentur GmbH together with six partner institutions: Fachhochschule Südwestfalen, University of Siegen, Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences, agentur mark GmbH, Wirtschaftsförderung Kreis Soest GmbH, and Wirtschaftsförderung Kreis Siegen-Wittgenstein. The project is funded by the European Union and the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.
Background: Südwestfalen Agentur GmbH
To strengthen the South Westphalia region through smart ideas, proactive efforts, and coordinated action, Südwestfalen Agentur GmbH was founded in 2008. It is supported by the five districts of South Westphalia—Olpe, Soest, Siegen-Wittgenstein, Hochsauerlandkreis, and Märkischer Kreis—as well as the association “Wirtschaft für Südwestfalen.” The agency pools the strengths of politics and business in the region and acts as a dynamic networking hub both internally and externally.
As a facilitator and driving force, the agency oversees the implementation of several funding programs. Within REGIONALE 2025, numerous partners are working with the agency to develop innovative projects that provide exemplary solutions to the evolving challenges of living, housing, and working in the region—in line with the South Westphalia DNA (digital, sustainable, authentic). REGIONALE 2025 is a structural program of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and is supported by federal and state urban development funding.
In addition, the agency coordinates the Smart City strategy for South Westphalia in cooperation with municipalities and is advancing the development of a coworking network for digital and decentralized workspaces through the “Hub45” initiative.
At the same time, Südwestfalen Agentur GmbH acts as a positive communication amplifier for the region. Under the regional marketing campaign “Südwestfalen – Alles echt” (“South Westphalia – All real”), it promotes the region’s unique profile nationwide and highlights diverse career and life opportunities for pupils, students, and skilled professionals. To further position South Westphalia as a top employer region, the agency coordinates the collaborative project “Arbeitgeberschmiede Südwestfalen” together with regional partners.