What Our Community Had To Say in 2024
2024 has been a year of diverse perspectives, new priorities, and shifting workplace values. At PE Global, we conducted a series of polls throughout 2024, to understand what truly matters to our community. From skills development to flexible work arrangements, here’s a look back at what our community had to say.
1. Workplace Priorities: Balance and Flexibility
A healthy work-life balance and flexibility topped the list of workplace priorities for our community. In a poll, 82% of respondents highlighted the importance of work-life balance for job satisfaction, while 45% cited flexible working hours as the most valued employee benefit. When asked if they would consider changing jobs if hybrid working was removed, 70% said they would, indicating a strong desire for flexibility to remain a staple in modern workplaces.
2. The Rising Influence of Skills-Based Hiring
As companies increasingly shift towards skills-based hiring, 52% of our community expressed a balanced view, valuing both skills and qualifications equally. However, 43% placed greater emphasis on skills, highlighting a trend where practical abilities and relevant experience are becoming as important as formal education. This shift aligns with changing hiring practices across industries, where a candidate’s adaptability and hands-on skills can be more significant than traditional credentials.
3. The Future of Work: AI, Remote Options, and Emerging Skills
The evolving workplace has brought technology to the forefront. Interestingly, while 71% of respondents expressed a preference for human-led interviews over AI or avatars, 75% agreed that nearly half of job seekers would turn down roles that don’t offer remote options. This reflects a community that values technological advancements in moderation, favouring personal connection but welcoming the flexibility that digital tools bring.
As we look to the future, resilience and adaptability were viewed as the most crucial skills for employees over the next five years, with 35% of respondents prioritising these qualities. With digital transformation significantly impacting daily tasks for 60% of respondents, it’s clear that the ability to adapt and stay agile will be indispensable.
4. Company Culture and Environmental Responsibility
Culture and values remain key factors in career decisions. 67% of our respondents said that company culture strongly influences their decision to accept job offers, and 55% consider a company’s environmental policies important in choosing an employer. This indicates a workforce that prioritises alignment with their employer’s mission and values, seeking organisations that demonstrate social responsibility.
5. Salary and Recognition: What Motivates Our Community?
When it comes to financial satisfaction, 64% of respondents feel underpaid, while 52% anticipate a salary increase this year. Employee recognition also plays a critical role, with 70% saying regular appreciation significantly boosts their motivation and job satisfaction. In a world where financial stability and acknowledgement are top motivators, this insight provides a roadmap for employers aiming to retain talent.
6. Mental Health and Well-Being: A Shared Responsibility
Mental health in the workplace was a major topic in 2024, with 76% acknowledging that their job affects their mental health. Many expressed a preference for discussing mental health with colleagues, showing that peer support is invaluable. Additionally, morning routines emerged as a unique way to set the tone for the day, with 54% of respondents opting to start their day with a big cup of coffee, highlighting the importance of personal rituals in supporting well-being.
7. In-Demand Roles and Leadership Qualities
As AI becomes integral to many industries, 74% of respondents pointed to Data Scientist as the most in-demand AI-related role. In terms of leadership, emotional intelligence (31%) and communication skills (29%) were deemed the most critical qualities for today’s leaders. This demonstrates that while technical roles grow in importance, people skills remain vital at the leadership level.
Looking Forward
As 2025 unfolds, these insights from our community provide a roadmap for employers and job seekers alike. From prioritising flexibility to fostering skills-based hiring, the future of work continues to evolve, shaped by the values and expectations of a dynamic workforce. We’ll continue to gather insights and share them with you, so stay tuned for more updates as we learn from your voices.
Finally, if you’re looking for your dream job. PE Global are here to help, so please get in touch or email queries@peglobal.net.