In the current UK job market, flexible working options are becoming a critical factor for employees when considering job offers. This trend is highlighted in the latest research by Robert Half, a specialist recruitment firm. Their 2024 Salary Guide, which provides insights into market salaries, hiring trends, and skills requirements across the UK, has shed light on the changing priorities of the workforce.
The guide reveals that while salary remains a key factor in job selection, with 63% of workers citing it as a reason to reject a job offer, other elements like flexible working and career development opportunities are gaining prominence. Notably, 47% of the workforce would decline a job offer if the company did not provide flexible working options. Additionally, 43% would turn down a role if it lacked suitable career development opportunities.
This shift in employee priorities comes at a time when 75% of employers express significant concerns about attracting and retaining staff. The research also indicates that 29% of workers are worried about the impact of heavy and increased workloads on their colleagues’ decision to stay with their current employers.
Kris Harris’s Insights on the Hiring Landscape
Kris Harris, Regional Director – UK Technology Solutions at Robert Half, emphasises the complexity of the current hiring landscape. He notes that while salaries are a substantial factor, candidates are increasingly seeking comprehensive packages that offer more than just financial compensation. Harris points out the growing debate around flexible working and the attention it is receiving in the media, especially regarding companies enforcing office returns. He expresses concern over the finding that nearly half of the workforce would reject job offers lacking flexible working options.
Harris also addresses the issue of inflated salaries, noting that 22% of businesses do not plan to offer pay increases. He suggests that while high salaries are not a sustainable long-term strategy, flexible working is a viable option. Despite a slowdown in the recruitment market, as indicated by recent labour market data from the Office for National Statistics, skills shortages persist. In this environment, candidates have more leverage, including the demand for flexibility.
Addressing Workload and Burnout Concerns
The report also touches on the issue of excessive workloads, a significant factor in employee retention. Harris warns that burnout is a real concern in the workforce, as suggested by the latest statistics. He argues that while a long-term solution to excessive workloads is necessary, the flexible labour market can play a crucial role in the interim. Harris advises employers to consider investing in contract staff to manage workloads effectively and retain full-time employees.
In summary, the Robert Half 2024 Salary Guide highlights a significant shift in the UK job market, with flexible working options and career development opportunities becoming key factors in job selection. This trend poses challenges for employers in terms of talent attraction and retention, especially in the face of ongoing skills shortages and concerns about workload and burnout.
