One-in-three considers quitting job
Low motivation and stalled productivity are posing serious threats to business, according to financial analysts Mercer.
Dissatisfaction with benefits, pay and job security top the list of reasons for workers’ discontent, according to the research which was conducted among 30,000 workers in 17 markets, including 1,000 workers in Ireland.
Just over one-in-three (35%) of Irish workers is seriously considering leaving their job, up sharply from 22% in 2004. Another 23% are indifferent about leaving but view their employer unfavourably.
Senior consultant with Mercer Patrick Robertson said: “This erosion in employee sentiment has business consequences that reach well beyond the direct costs of employee turnover.
“Diminished loyalty and widespread apathy can undermine business performance, particularly as companies increasingly look to their people to drive productivity gains and spur innovation.”
Just 47% of Irish workers say their benefits are as good as, or better today than, those offered by other organisations in their industry, down 24 points from 71% in 2004 — the largest decline in the survey.
Far fewer (53%) than in 2004 (62%) believe they are paid fairly given their performance and contributions to the organisation.
Mercer said that of particular concern, is that nearly half of Irish employees aged 24 and younger are looking to leave their job.
Mr Robertson said: “These young, vibrant workers may choose to emigrate given the dearth of opportunity plaguing Ireland’s job market and this may seriously diminish the talent pools available to employers,”
He added that employees see a disconnect between what employers promise and what they deliver.
