UK employees plan on voting with their feet if changes to their role aren’t made by their current employers, research today reveals.
The study, by e-gift provider Prezzee, found that almost a third (32%) of employees would consider leaving their job, the equivalent of 10.6m British workers.
The research found that 81% of respondents were looking for changes to their role for 2025 which included; 26% wanting an improved work / life balance, followed by more flexibility (17%) and increased recognition (12%).
It appears workers don’t want to wait until 2025 for changes to be made though. When asked what one gift they’d appreciate the most from their employer this Christmas, almost 20% wanted additional time off over the holiday period, just behind receiving a financial token or gift voucher (26%), a clear sign that the cost of living is still leaving workers feeling the pinch.
There was a clear drop off when it comes to short-term gestures though, with a tenth (11%) hoping to receive a Christmas hamper or food gift, while just 9% would appreciate a Christmas party.
The data suggests more autonomy in the workplace is central to achieving a balance in the eyes of UK employees, although attitudes towards this vary when considering different age groups. Work / life balance is most highly sought after by millennials aged between 25 – 34, and flexibility is prioritised by 1 in 4 of 35-44 year olds, whereas over 55s are most likely to feel they’d change nothing about their current role.
James Malia, global chief growth officer and European president at Prezzee, emphasises the importance for businesses to prepare for the new year by evaluating necessary changes, particularly with the holiday season approaching. He points out that Prezzee’s data reveals a significant trend: a third of employees are reportedly contemplating a job change by 2025. This statistic underscores a growing demand among employees for better work-life balance, increased holiday time, and financial incentives as expressions of appreciation. Malia suggests that addressing these needs could play a key role in retaining talent and supporting employee satisfaction in the coming year. Malia commented:
While these figures will no doubt worry many business leaders, they should take solace in the knowledge that the necessary changes aren’t hard to implement. Listening to what the team is actively calling out for will go a long way to show their wellbeing is front of mind. That, alongside showing employees you care with regular rewards and recognition for going above and beyond, should be the focus for decision makers as we approach the new year.
James Malia, global chief growth officer and European president, Prezzee
Joanne is the editor for Workplace Wellbeing Professional and has a keen interest in promoting the safety and wellbeing of the global workforce. After earning a bachelor's degree in English literature and media studies, she taught English in China and Vietnam for two years. Before joining Work Well Pro, Joanne worked as a marketing coordinator for luxury property, where her responsibilities included blog writing, photography, and video creation.