UK workers eye new jobs in 2024, prioritizing pay
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — Two-fifths (40%) of UK employees intend to change jobs this year, reveals a new Candidate Sentiment survey by recruitment firm Robert Half. One in six have already begun hunting.
This figure is lower than the 47% planning to move jobs this time last year.
The motivation is higher salaries, cited by 45%. But 29% also want more flexible working arrangements.
Notably, 50% of respondents wouldn’t work for a company misaligned with their values, and 63% stated company values would influence their job choice if salary offers were similar.
“The combination of skills shortages and a cost-of-living crisis is causing some employees to jump ship for a pay boost, with the younger generation leading the way,” said Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director UK & Ireland, at Robert Half.
The survey shows 18- to 34-year-olds are more likely to move roles than any other age group.
London expects the biggest talent drain, with 56% – nearly a quarter (23%) already looking for a new job. The West Midlands and Yorkshire/Humberside trail at 45% and 42%.
Weston advised firms to “offer more than just a salary boost if they are to source the right resources on a long-term basis.”
On the other hand, almost 60% of UK workers feel confident about their job security for the next six months, according to the Robert Half Jobs Confidence Index.
