Employee Appreciation Day today spotlights the importance of valuing workers, but new research has revealed that 70% of UK employees are actively seeking a new job. While pay (40%) and benefits (26%) remain top priorities, the findings suggest that workplace wellbeing initiatives, including recognition, rewards and flexible working, could significantly improve retention.
A culture of appreciation is more than a feel-good factor—it plays a crucial role in keeping employees engaged. The research, conducted by payment technology company Blackhawk Network (BHN), found that:
- 79% of employees feel valued when they receive recognition
- 47% want more frequent rewards to stay motivated
- 63% want to be recognised at least monthly
Worryingly, many employees feel their contributions go unnoticed. The findings suggest that a lack of appreciation and recognition is a key driver of job dissatisfaction, with 40% saying they would reconsider leaving if they received a reward or recognition after resigning.
Workplace Change and Job Insecurity Fuel the Job Hunt
The workplace has undergone significant shifts over the past year, contributing to employee unrest:
- 84% of employees have experienced notable changes in their roles
- 16% have seen their workloads increase without a pay rise
- 21% work for companies that have laid off employees
- 87% have concerns about their current employment situation, with pay and potential layoffs among the biggest worries
This sense of instability, the figures indicate, is pushing many employees to explore new opportunities. However, organisations that prioritise employee wellbeing and appreciation can prevent costly turnover.
Flexible Work and Benefits Matter More Than Ever
While salary remains the top retention factor (71%), flexibility is also a major influence.
- 31% of employees say a four-day workweek would keep them loyal to their employer
- 59% would be more inclined to work in a physical office if their pay increased
Different generations value different benefits. While Gen X and Boomers prioritise flexibility, Millennials and Gen Z place higher importance on extra days off. This demonstrates the need for personalised benefits strategies that cater to a multi-generational workforce.
What Can Employers Do?
With such a high proportion of workers seeking new roles, experts say businesses must rethink their approach to workplace wellbeing and employee appreciation.
Make Recognition an Everyday Practice
Recognition should not be reserved for annual reviews — it needs to be regular and meaningful. Personalised rewards, peer-to-peer recognition and shoutouts for contributions can all make a difference.
Offer Flexible Benefits
A one-size-fits-all approach no longer works. Employers should allow workers to tailor benefits to their needs, whether through additional leave, workplace flexibility or versatile rewards such as gift cards.
Reconsider the Structure of the Workweek
With a growing number of employees favouring a four-day workweek, trialling flexible schedules could be a game-changer for retention and productivity.
Improve Job Security and Transparency
With concerns about layoffs driving job searches, businesses must prioritise clear communication about career progression and job stability.
Create a Culture of Appreciation
More than just rewards, appreciation should be embedded in workplace culture. Managers should be trained to actively acknowledge employee contributions and create an environment where people feel valued every day.
On Employee Appreciation Day, the message is clear: employees who feel valued are more engaged, productive and loyal. With nearly three-quarters of the UK workforce considering a job change, organisations that fail to prioritise recognition, flexibility and wellbeing risk losing talent.