THE GREAT RESIGNATION - WHAT WORKERS WANT FROM THEIR JOBS

New research by global accounting giant PWC has further underlined a predicted major disruption in the workforce, as employees look for pay rises to manage the cost-of-living crisis – but as they also seek a better work/life balance, and fulfilment.

PwC’s Global Workforce Hopes and Features survey took soundings from over 52,000 workers in 44 countries and territories, and found that 35% are planning to ask their employer for a pay rise in the next 12 months.

Pressure on pay is highest in the tech sector where 44% of workers surveyed plan to ask for a raise and is lowest in the public sector (25%).

While an increase in pay is a main motivator for making a job change (71%), wanting a fulfilling job (69%) and wanting to truly be themselves at work (66%) round out the top three things workers are looking for.

Nearly half (47%) prioritised being able to choose where they work.

The survey also reveals a gender disparity, particularly when it comes to pay and communication with managers. Women were seven percentage points less likely than men to say they are fairly rewarded financially, but still seven points less likely to ask for a raise. 

Women were also eight points less likely to ask for a promotion, and that request is more likely to fall on deaf ears – as women are eight points less likely than men to feel their manager listens to them.

There were also significant differences between generations, with Gen Z workers less satisfied with their job and twice as likely as Baby Boomers to be concerned that technology will replace their role in the next three years.

Other key findings from the survey include:

• 45% of respondents said their job could not be done remotely

• Of those who say their job can be done remotely:

• 63% say they prefer some mix of in-person and remote working - the same proportion who said they expect their employer to offer that mix for at least the next 12 months

• 26% of employees would prefer full-time remote work, but only 18% say their employers are likely to adopt that model.

• Another 18% say that their employers are likely to require full-time in-person work, which just 11% of employees prefer.

Amiqus carried out its own research into attitudes about working in the games industry late last year – Will The Great Resignation Hit Games?

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