At Mason Alexander, we recognise the importance of talent as the driving force behind industry progression. In our continuous pursuit of fostering mutually beneficial relationships between employers and candidates, we conducted a talent survey designed to gather insights from candidates on their job preferences, motivations, and evolving workplace dynamics. The survey focused on those in technical roles within our core areas of Technology and Life Sciences, while also including valuable perspectives from candidates in wider Business Support positions of the STEM sector.

This document delves into our findings, serving as a guide for employers and a roadmap for candidates navigating the modern job landscape.

For hiring managers, it provides invaluable insights and recommendations for employers seeking to attract and retain top talent in this dynamic landscape; empowering employers to craft tailored recruitment strategies that resonate with candidates.

For job seekers, this document sheds light on industry trends, helping candidates align their aspirations with the dynamic demands of their respective sectors. Our commitment to empowering candidates extends beyond just recruitment; it's about equipping individuals with the insights they need to navigate their careers successfully, ensuring alignment between personal ambitions and industry evolution.

At Mason Alexander, we are dedicated to remaining at the forefront of industry shifts. By exploring the professional landscape, we can equip our clients and candidates with the foresight needed to make strategic decisions. Our objective is to cultivate an environment where talent unites seamlessly with opportunity, propelling industries forward while fostering individual career advancement – aligning talent with opportunity and nurturing a landscape where both clients and candidates thrive.

Over a third of respondents (36%) changed jobs in the last 12 months, signalling an active mobility trend.

Further, a significant majority (55%) are actively seeking new opportunities. Of those considering a shift, the immediacy is apparent, with 62% aiming for a change within the next 3 months.

of professionals are actively looking for a new job, with 62% of the same respondents aiming to make a move within the next 3 months.

Motivations for Change

Motivations for job change align primarily with financial, professional growth, and work-life balance, with higher salary (63%), career advancement opportunities (58%), and work-life balance (58%) topping the list.

However, company culture fit (43%) and seeking new challenges (37%) hold substantial weight, emphasising the importance of holistic job satisfaction.

*These figures represent % of candidates that selected each reason as a motivating factor to change job.

It's also vital to note that feeling recognised for contributions beyond salary and benefits is a significant factor.

A combined 60% either strongly agree or agree that they feel recognised for their contributions, showcasing the importance of acknowledging and valuing employees beyond monetary rewards.

However, 40% either feel neutral, disagree, or strongly disagree about being recognised, indicating potential areas where organisations can enhance their efforts. Acknowledging and appreciating employees' contributions beyond financial remuneration can significantly impact morale and job contentment, making it a crucial area for employers to address.