What people want from work in 2023.

We are in the era of talent. 

In 2023, employers have an opportunity to build an exceptional employee experience, improve engagement and reduce turnover - all while attracting the right people to join you when you need to hire.

It all starts with listening. When you understand what employees want, you can adapt your approach to talent, be a great place to work, and become a talent magnet.

So what are employees looking for in the year ahead, and what can you do to make your organisation stand out on the hiring market? 

Balance

This one is a no-brainer.

Post-pandemic, most people have been rethinking how work fits in with their life. In 2023, a whopping 88% of employees are seeking flexible work arrangements. 

Flexible and remote working are no longer a nice-to-have. Flexibility needs are personal. Employers who can offer inclusive, personalised flexible and remote working arrangements will come out on top in 2023. While all jobs and teams will have some minimum/compulsory requirements, retail giant Marks & Spencer has proven that even employers with a large cohort of front line workers can offer flexible working, 

It’s time to give people some personal autonomy and let people fit their work around their life. 

Need more convincing? Studies show that a good work-life balance with great flexibility and well-being support can help people feel 3.2x happier at work. You’ll benefit from an engaged and motivated team that never relies on a one-size-fits-all approach. 

Growth opportunities

In 2022, job seekers told LinkedIn that career development was the number-one reason they wanted a new job.

This year, talent attraction and retention outcomes will be increasingly reliant on the growth value you can offer. In fact, 69% of job seekers are looking for organisations that invest in professional development. 

Smart employers will consider how they can help their people grow within their roles and take the next step in their careers without leaving for the next big thing. While this might be a challenge for smaller organisations, it’s a pretty clear message - people want opportunities to grow and let’s face it - if you can support this internally, your always-learning team members can add even more value. It’s a win-win!

The more you work to support your team’s career aspirations, the more collaborative your approach will become. Soon, your role as a leader will be focused on working alongside your evolving team to pursue your organisation’s purpose. 

Great employee experience

Finally (but perhaps most importantly), people want a great employee experience (EX).

We’re craving investment in the human aspects of work. Positive culture, authentic and caring leadership, good relationships, open communication, and work that has impact and meaning.

47% of job seekers in Australia and New Zealand say culture is a top priority when choosing a new job.

Feeling valued, a sense of belonging, and enjoying the time we  spend at work are more important than ever before.

Want to know the best bit?

When leaders show up for their teams and employers care enough to build a great employee experience, employees are happier and more willing to go the extra mile.

But all of this is doing more than boosting engagement and improving retention.

All of this good stuff curates a positive, compelling employer brand and helps you become a talent magnet.

Ready to be a brand that connects, inside and out?

Whether you need to attract new talent, improve engagement, reduce turnover, or simply want to be better in 2023, Heart can help.