A global survey of more than 4000 professionals has found that that work/life balance and salary rank equally as top criteria when looking for a new job. The study, by CEMS (a Global Alliance of business schools, multinational companies and NGOs) also revealed that professionals over the age of 35 rank the opportunity for work/life balance higher than salary.
Quick career progression and the chance to make an impact at an early stage also ranked highly. And whilst opportunities for global travel appeared in the top five criteria for the youngest respondents (19-25), it was far lower down the list for other age groups – they rated inspirational leadership further up.
Nicole de Fontaines, executive director of CEMS, said: “Although salary will always be an important factor, work is not all about money. Achieving a good work/life balance and getting the chance to make an impact in a role is more important than ever, for employees of all ages.
“It is important that organisations listen carefully to what professionals most desire from roles and act on this. This way, they can attract the most talented staff, benefit from the ambition of their people, encourage innovation and ultimately gain competitive advantage in an uncertain age.”
