Return to office | Firms with reduced flexibility facing staff exodus

Recruiters have reported a talent exodus from companies now offering their employees less flexibility in where they work, with 70% of individuals in the UK actively pursuing new employment opportunities.

Research among more than 500 in-house and agency recruiters revealed a surge in applications from employees at companies requiring their teams to be in a city centre office five days a week. Two thirds (67%) had seen an increase in candidates looking for new positions following mandates from current employers that require them to spend more time at a central office.

The latest research conducted by Blackhawk Network (BHN) reveals that a significant portion of the UK workforce, specifically 70%, is actively pursuing new job opportunities. This study, which surveyed 1,010 individuals, aims to shed light on the evolving employment landscape in the UK. The timing of this research coincides with Employee Appreciation Day on March 7, 2025, a day dedicated to acknowledging and valuing the contributions of employees within the workplace. A primary factor influencing this trend appears to be the substantial changes that have occurred in the workplace over recent years. An overwhelming 84% of employees reported experiencing significant alterations in their job roles, with 16% noting an increase in their workloads without a corresponding rise in compensation. Furthermore, nearly one-quarter (21%) of respondents indicated that their companies have enacted layoffs. Alarmingly, 87% of employees expressed concerns regarding their current job situations, with issues related to compensation and potential layoffs being the most pressing. What encourages employee loyalty? When participants were asked about factors that would enhance their loyalty to their employers, 71% identified a higher salary as the most influential element. In addition to financial compensation, nearly half (47%) expressed a desire for more frequent recognition and rewards, with 79% stating that such acknowledgment makes them feel valued and appreciated. Moreover, 63% of employees indicated that they wish to receive recognition for their contributions at least on a monthly basis. The findings also revealed that 40% of employees would reconsider their decision to leave their current positions if they were to receive recognition or rewards after submitting their resignations, highlighting the critical role of consistent appreciation in strategies aimed at employee retention. Flexibility in benefits and work preferences Workplace flexibility remains a crucial component of employee satisfaction. Approximately one-third (31%) of employees indicated that a four-day workweek would enhance their loyalty to their employer. Additionally, 59% of employees stated that a salary increase would make them more willing to work in a traditional office environment.