London’s ‘Great Resignation’ and what it means for candidates

Almost a fifth of UK workers have said they expect to leave their current job for a new employer in the next 12 months as they seek better pay and job satisfaction, according to new research. A recent survey by accounting giant PwC has found that 18% of workers said they “are very or extremely likely” to switch jobs in a year.

Because of this, skilled workers are in hot demand across all industries as the ‘great resignation’ plagues employers, and those with professional backgrounds looking to move to London should expect a warm welcome.

Candidates would be remiss if they didn’t:

Ask for more money

The first offer is never their best offer. Always ask the hiring manager if you can have a conversation about it before you accept, particularly in times of employee shortages. It’s going to cost the company more to restart their search to fill the role, then it would be to increase your starting salary.

Expect a decent benefits package

There are some amazing benefits being offered by employers these days, particularly in the tech sector, in order to attract and retain staff. Many companies are offering employees health and income protection insurance, extended annual leave, health and wellbeing initiatives and stock options. It’s worth asking about the benefits package early in an interview process as it can be an important part of your salary negotiations.

Request flexibility with where you work

Since COVID-19 forced everyone into their homes for months on end, employees and many employers have become accustomed to a hybrid-work model. If you want the flexibility to work from home as and when you need to, make sure it’s included in your contract so that this flexibility is protected.

Now’s the time to make the move.