Most want a new job but here’s how to get them to stay

workingSeven in ten media and marketing professionals working across Europe, the Media East and Africa (EMEA) are looking to change jobs this year, driven by the desire for more money (30%), a better work/life balance (24%), and the opportunity to grow (17%) but admit they could be persuaded to stay if their current employers upped their game.

So says new research from professional network LinkedIn, which quizzed study of 600+ industry professionals across the region, which also reveals more than eight out of ten (83%) of people say they feel confident in their current role, and nearly two-thirds (63%) feel buoyed to pursue a promotion or new job opportunity.

The research highlights a general optimism about opportunities within the sector, with 71% of professionals believing the number of job openings will increase or stay the same this year, while three-quarters think pay rises are more likely or just as likely compared to last year. A further 79% say job security is likely to improve or remain consistent to last year.

When looking for new job opportunities, the number one priority for professionals in these industries is flexibility, with over a quarter (27%) saying that understanding an organisation’s flexible working offering is key when considering new roles.

The findings do not go quite as far as those of a recent survey by not-for-profit healthcare provider Benenden Health, which claimed media and marketing professionals are so desperate for flexible working, that they are even willing ditch to competitive pay and bonuses to achieve a good work/life balance. However, the lure of cash is never to be underestimated.

As if to prove the point, employees are willing to stay with their current company if they can secure an increase in salary (42%), progression opportunities (31%), greater flexibility (30%), and more support and appreciation from management (29%).

LinkedIn senior director for EMEA & LATAM Tom Pepper said: “We’re seeing media and marketing professionals start the year with confidence as they look for opportunities that better suit their needs, particularly when it comes to flexibility and professional development.

“The power to demand more from employers is increasingly in the hands of employees and candidates, and companies that don’t move with the times run the risk of losing their best talent.

“Crucially, there’s still time to adapt and businesses can do this by embracing workplace flexibility, supporting employee wellbeing and showcasing company culture through strong employer branding.”

Related stories
Gizza job: Marketers are in demand as vacancies soar
Forget top salaries, give us our lives back, say marketers
Marketers happy to take pay cut to work from home
Businesses under fire for gruelling recruitment process
UK firms facing talent crisis as millions plan to quit job
Big issues still to tackle in 2022: The talent contest
Four in ten have ditched adland for a change of career