The concerns and demands of workers have been the focus of discussions and negotiations for years. One of the most significant concerns of employees is their pay. Workers strive for fair compensation, and research shows that workers around the world are concerned about pay.
In research published by the ADP Research Institute, over 32,000 workers worldwide participated in a survey to determine their views on salary, work arrangements, job security, investment in skills training, compensation, and career progression.
The findings reveal that salary is the most important factor for workers. This article breaks down the survey results into six significant areas that demonstrate workers’ concerns, expectations, and needs.
Salary is the most important factor
The survey showed that six out of ten workers reported that salary is the most influential factor in choosing a job. The importance of salary was consistent across all genders, age groups, and countries surveyed. This result indicates that, regardless of location or demographic, workers are influenced by salary considerations.
The survey further revealed that workers worldwide, even though they received an average pay rise of 6.4% last year, still believe that they are underpaid. They expect an increase of 8% to 10% in 2023, which highlights the challenge for employers to balance the need to compensate workers fairly while maintaining the company’s profitability.
Workers believe they’re underpaid
The fact that workers globally still see themselves as underpaid despite receiving wage increases last year indicates that, in many cases, employers’ pay policies are insufficient or not commensurate with employee expectations.
Motivating and retaining employees is a critical aspect of every organization. Pay is a significant component and employees must feel motivated by their compensation package.
Employers need to conduct compensation planning regularly to ensure their workers receive a fair salary. This practice will enable them to achieve business objectives, retain employees, and attract a greater pool of talent.
Flexibility in work arrangements
The survey demonstrated that workers in North America are pleased with the flexibility they have in deciding where and when to work. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for flexible work arrangements, and it is now a critical component for workers to attain work-life balance.
Flexible work arrangements can be more important to employees than cash compensation, as they provide greater control over their time and improve their well-being.
Employers should be mindful of the importance and advantages of flexible work arrangements, and offer them to employees where possible. This practice will help to reduce burnout, improve employee satisfaction, and enhance job performance.
Other Factors in Addition to Pay Raises
Workers worldwide consider a range of factors in addition to salary when evaluating their work experience. Alongside pay, improving job security and investing in training are perhaps the most critical considerations. These factors supplement the value of pay and enable employees to feel secure, invested, and valued within their work environment.
Workers are receptive to other forms of compensation, including bonuses, benefits, non-cash perks, and gift cards. Employers who offer more creative compensation packages could see significant improvements in employee loyalty and retention.
Opportunities for career progression
Employers can nurture employee loyalty and motivation by offering opportunities for career progression. Encouraging employee development plays an essential role in employee retention, leading to business growth and continuity.
Creating opportunities for upward mobility, rotational assignments, or training programs can motivate and support employee career aspirations.
Employers can invest in employee training programs in addition to traditional compensation packages, which allows employees to acquire vital skills that can lead to future career opportunities within their company’s framework.
Complete flexibility over where to work
The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that remote work is possible on a wide scale. Many businesses’ operations have continued uninterrupted due to employees working from home.
One third of the respondents reported having complete flexibility over where they work. Remote work arrangements offer several benefits, such as reduced commuting time and increased time flexibility, leading to greater productivity and employee well-being.
Due to these benefits, remote work arrangements are likely to become the “new normal.” Companies must be ready to provide their workers with the tools and infrastructure needed to enable them to work remotely, ensuring business continuity.
Time saved on commuting leads to healthier habits
The survey found that the time saved on commuting to and from work resulting from remote work arrangements has led to healthier habits for employees. Remote workers can use the extra time they gain to exercise, spend time with family, or undertake personal projects.
This trend has also led to improved work-life balance and employee well-being. Companies that prioritize employee well-being are more likely to achieve significant gains in employee retention, productivity, and job performance.
The ADP Research Institute survey provides insight into workers’ concerns and expectations regarding salary, work arrangements, training investment, and compensation. The results demonstrate that salary is the most important factor for workers, followed by job security, training and development, and work-life balance.
In addition to traditional compensation packages, employers should offer innovative compensation strategies, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities for career progression to nurture employee loyalty and motivation.
Employers who prioritize employee well-being by promoting healthy habits will enjoy increased productivity, enhanced job performance, and reduced turnover rates. Businesses that strive to meet their employees’ needs in these ways will be well-positioned to thrive in the ever-evolving world of work.