Post-COVID-19: 50% of employees are looking to move jobs

A survey has found that 50% of employees are looking to move jobs after COVID-19. Photo: Getty

Half of UK employees are planning on looking for a new job after COVID-19, according to new research.

This is partly driven by a desire for more flexible working and a better work/life balance, according to a survey of 1,150 employees carried out in July 2020 by Hooray Health & Protection. With the coronavirus crisis forcing many businesses to transition to remote working during lockdown, many employees are looking to continue with flexible working post-COVID-19. Three quarters (75%) said that flexible working would have some impact on their morale as lockdown restrictions ease.

Many workers are looking to switch jobs due to a lack of employee benefits, the survey found. Almost half (47%) of businesses currently offer no employee benefits to their staff and 64% of those working on the frontline during the coronavirus crisis do not receive any employee benefits.

Income protection was the most sought after, with 24% citing this as the most desirable benefit, followed by health insurance (22%).

“The COVID-19 crisis has been devastating for the job market and the true extent of the aftermath is still yet to be revealed. However, the biggest impact has been the human one with people fearing for their lives and their livelihoods,” said Charlie Cousins, founder of Hooray Health & Protection.

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“As businesses work to find their feet in this new normal we find ourselves in, their employees need to be at the heart of their approach if they are to survive.

“The survey demonstrates that 50% of staff in the UK are already considering seeking new employment, therefore businesses must adapt quickly and significantly to ensure that their workforce are receiving the support they need.

“Flexible working can be hugely beneficial for businesses and as the survey suggests, three quarters of staff welcome this. Employers who embrace this new way of working are likely to be the ones who find increased productivity and morale among their staff as they provide a better work-life balance to employees.”