UK lowest, India highest in global workforce motivation: Korn Ferry
CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES — Global organizational consulting firm Korn Ferry’s new Motivation Meter revealed disparities across geographies, job levels, and generations.
Korn Ferry surveyed 10,000 professionals at various career stages, from entry-level to CEO, across the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Middle East, Australia, and India, in March and April 2024.
The survey provides crucial insights into employee sentiment and workplace dynamics.
Geographical variations of workforce motivation
The United Kingdom emerges as the least motivated workforce, with only 60% of professionals indicating motivation to exceed role requirements.
This figure stands in stark contrast to the global average of 71%.
On the other hand, India boasts the most motivated workforce globally, with 84% of employees reporting high motivation levels.
The United States falls between these extremes, with 75% of workers expressing motivation.
Hierarchical and generational motivation gap
While 81% of CEOs report high motivation levels, only 57% of non-managers share this sentiment.
This 24% difference highlights a disparity in workplace engagement across organizational hierarchies.
“Amid hybrid work and growing concerns of disconnection in the workplace, it’s essential for organizations to focus on supporting employees with the right incentives, rewards, and development opportunities to help them advance and reach their full potential,” said Mark Arian, CEO of Korn Ferry’s Consulting business.
“Professionals who are motivated and feel excited about their work will release discretionary energy that will allow them to thrive, and ultimately become more aligned to the business strategy, delivering more value to the organization.”
Interestingly, the survey reveals that Millennials are currently the most motivated generation in the workforce, with 75% reporting high motivation levels.
This marks a shift from previous trends where younger Gen Z workers typically showed higher motivation. Gen X and Boomer employees are now trending lower in motivation as age increases.
