Thinking of Quitting? You’re Not the Only One
If you’ve found yourself casually scrolling job ads lately, or wondering how to exit your present role, you’re not alone.
More than half (53%) of UK professionals are planning to look for a new job before the end of the year or are already searching, according to new research from Robert Half.
But here’s the interesting bit: money isn’t the biggest reason.
We want our lives back
Better work-life balance tops the list, with 38% looking for a more manageable workload. Career progression comes next (35%), followed by better benefits (34%).
Pay still matters — 29% feel underpaid — while 28% want more opportunities to work remotely.
Basically? We want jobs that fit around our lives, rather than lives that fit around our jobs.
But we’re not jumping ship blindly
Despite all that itchy-feet energy, security matters.
A massive 92% say job security is extremely or very important when making career decisions.
So what is motivating our career choices?
New Robert Half research reveals career progression, work-life balance and job security are shaping career decisions
Key findings:
• 53% of UK professionals are either planning to look for a new role before the end of the year or have already begun their search
• Better work-life balance (38%), career progression (35%) and improved benefits (34%) are among the biggest motivations for seeking a new role
• Nearly 3 in 10 (29%) UK workers are planning a move as they feel underpaid
• Job security remains a major priority, with 92% of UK workers saying it is either extremely or very important when evaluating career decisions
More than half of UK professionals (53%) are planning to look for a new job before the end of the year, according to new research from global talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half. The survey of 1,000 UK workers found that 35% intend to begin a job search while a further 18% are already actively looking for a new role.
The findings suggest that despite ongoing economic uncertainty, professionals remain open to new opportunities. However, career decisions are being shaped by a combination of priorities, including career progression, flexibility and long-term stability, rather than salary alone.
Why professionals are looking elsewhere
Among those considering a move, the most common reason cited was a desire for a better work-life balance or a more manageable workload (38%), followed by limited opportunities for career advancement (35%) and seeking better benefits and perks (34%).
Nearly 3 in 10 (29%) say they feel underpaid in their current role, while 28% would like greater access to remote working options. Concerns about job security are also influencing career decisions, with 22% citing it as a core reason to look for a new job.
Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director, UK & Ireland at Robert Half, explains:
“The labour market remains active, but professionals are becoming increasingly selective about the opportunities they pursue. While pay remains important, workers are placing greater emphasis on career progression, flexibility, wellbeing and long-term security when considering their next move.”
“What we’re seeing is a shift towards more considered career decisions. Professionals want to move forward in their careers, but they also want confidence that a new role will provide the development opportunities, culture and stability they’re looking for.”
Job security remains front of mind
While many workers are considering a job move, concerns about stability remain high. More than half (53%) say job security is extremely important when evaluating career decisions, while a further 39% describe it as very important. The research also found that among those not planning to look for a new role, nearly half (49%) say they feel fulfilled in their current job, while the same proportion cite workplace flexibility as a key reason for staying put.
Weston added: “The fact that so many professionals are considering a move while also placing such a high value on job security highlights the balance people are trying to strike in today’s market. Workers want opportunities to develop and progress, but they are also cautious about making the wrong move.”
“For employers, this reinforces the importance of offering competitive salaries, perks and benefits, and a compelling employee experience. Organisations that can provide clear career pathways, flexibility, competitive benefits and a sense of stability will be best positioned to attract and retain talent in the months ahead.”
Top Tip: Don’t just compare salaries
So while the temptation to move might be there, it’s worth checking the grass really is greener before you leap. Look at the company’s social media pages. Also, check out their profiles on other sites to see what other people are saying about the company.
A pay rise can quickly lose its shine if it comes with a pricey commute, less flexibility or longer hours. It’s worth finding out what the company culture is like and what the expectations are before you make your move.
Compare the whole package — and ask whether the new job will actually make your life better. Or whether you can make your present role better.
Even if you are unable to secure a pay rise, you can ask to negotiate other benefits to your advantage. September is a great time to re-evaluate your current position, whether or not this is progressing your career and how you can make yourself happier at work.
