Survey reveals the return of ambition to the UK workforce
- 37% of workers are planning to leave their current jobs in 2015 – a dramatic increase from 2014 (19%) and 2013 (13%)
- Ambition trumps salary with nearly two thirds (59%) hoping for increased opportunity for progression
- 25% moving because they feel underappreciated
A new research study has revealed that the appetite to move up is on the minds of 37% of the UK population.
Conducted by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM), the survey of more than 1,000 UK workers and managers shows a dramatic increase in the proportion of the UK planning to move jobs. Previous surveys reported only 19% were planning to move in 2014, while just 13% planned a career move in 2013.
Of those who left their jobs in 2014, 35% cited greater opportunity for progression as their main motivation for seeking a new role – compared to only 12% who sought a higher salary. Meanwhile, 59% claimed that increased opportunity for progression was their priority when looking for a new job this year, beating a better salary (56%), a more interesting role (50%) and better management (30%).
ILM want to highlight that if companies are to retain staff in 2015, it’s important for them to make sure structures are in place for workers to progress but also to communicate these opportunities effectively.
Charles Elvin, Chief Executive of the Institute of Leadership & Management, said:
“The new year is always a popular time for workers to look ahead. With an improving economy and more fruitful job market, it is important that employers realise that it’s likely they will have to work harder to keep their talented employees. This means prioritising managing the talent pipeline within the organisation to make sure staff have opportunities to develop and progress.”
The survey also revealed that staff are feeling increasingly undervalued by their managers. 25% of those planning to leave said it was because they felt unappreciated in their current role, almost 10% more than last year (16%).
Charles continued:
“All staff want to feel that they are appreciated by their organisation so it’s crucial that companies actively recognise the efforts and talents of their employees. Companies may want to adapt to this new improved climate, by acknowledging where staff have excelled and moulding opportunities for them to advance.”
What UK workers are hoping for in 2015:
- More opportunity for progression (59%)
- Better pay (56%)
- More interesting job (50%)
- Better management (30%)
- More opportunity for training/development (27%)
- More opportunity for flexible working (18%)
- Nicer people (5%)
- Better options for parental leave (3%)
Charles Staples is an editorial assistant at HRreview.
