- 7 out of 10 UK employees want a change in employer. Pay (40%) is the top priority, followed by benefits (26%).
- Almost all employees (84%) have seen significant changes to their role in the last year
- Almost a quarter of employees (21%) said that their company had laid off workers
London, 17th February, According to a new survey conducted by Blackhawk Network, the majority of UK workers (70%) are looking for new employment opportunities. The study surveyed 1,000 people in order to understand the dynamics of changing employment in the UK. This research was done ahead of Employee Appreciation day (March 7, 2025), a celebration of the importance of recognising, valuing and appreciating employees in the workplace.
Significant changes at work over the last few years could be a major factor. Nearly all (84%) employees reported significant changes in their role, and 16% said they had increased workloads but no pay increase. Nearly a quarter of employees (21%) reported that their company had implemented layoffs. Alarmingly 87% of respondents expressed concern about their current job situation. Pay and possible layoffs were the top two concerns.
What is it that keeps employees?
A higher salary was the most common answer (71%) when asked what they thought would increase their loyalty to their employer. Nearly half of respondents (47%) said they would like to receive more frequent rewards and recognition. 79% stated that rewards and recognition make them feel appreciated and valued. 63% of employees said they wanted to be recognized for their efforts on a monthly basis.
Research also revealed that 40% of employees were willing to reconsider leaving their role if given a reward or recognition for resigning. This highlights the importance of employee retention methods and strategies which include consistent appreciation.
Flexible benefits
Flexibility in the workplace continues to be an important factor for employee satisfaction. A four-day week would make nearly a third of employees loyal to their employer. A pay raise would also make 59% of employees more likely to prefer a physical workplace.
There are generational differences when it comes to benefits other than salary. Gen X, Boomers, and Millennials ranked flexibility at the top of their list.
These generational insights highlight the importance of tailoring benefits packages to meet unique needs of diverse employees, ensuring employers can engage talent from all age groups.
Chris Ronald, Regional Head, Incentives, Rewards & Benefits, BHN, stated that “These findings demonstrate the urgent need for companies to adapt to changing expectations from their employees.” Companies that fail to address this concern risk losing their best talent. By focusing on flexible working practices, meaningful rewards and recognition programs, along with meaningful voluntary benefits, they can create an engaged and loyal workforce. Flexible rewards, such as multi-store gift certificates from One4All, are a great option to show employees appreciation by allowing them to choose where they want their money spent. Employers of all sizes are under pressure to create a company culture that will increase employee engagement, productivity, and performance. Tangible rewards for specific achievements and success play a role and complement an “always-on” employee benefits strategy.
Visit our website to read more about the latest research highlights
https://www.one4allrewards.co.uk/blog/staff-rewards/employee-appreciation-day
The original HR News article The Great Employee Exodus: Brits seek new jobs in 70% of cases appeared.
