Creating a strong company culture focused on wellbeing, transparency and collaboration is “key” for UK small businesses hoping to attract and retain talent.
According to the recently launched Hiring Guide, published by Adobe Express, a third (32 per cent) of small business owners plan to “significantly invest” in recruitment over the next twelve months. However, 72 per cent of small companies are currently experiencing progression delays due to staffing issues.
The report attributes the difficulties in hiring staff to employees prioritising better work-life balance and career development opportunities – something that smaller companies, often with limited resources, are seen to struggle with when competing for talent with larger companies.
The Hiring Guide is based on a survey of 1,000 UK adults and business owners. The data has been gathered in order to better understand current career motivations and recruitment challenges.
When asked about their primary motivation for job hunting, one in five (21 per cent) of candidates and employees said they are looking for a better work-life balance – only just behind the 23 per cent that revealed they are chasing a better salary.
The report also reinforces the importance of flexible working arrangements in workplace wellbeing. Nearly half (45 per cent) of the individuals surveyed mentioned the importance of hybrid working arrangements, with one in five (19 per cent) preferring roles offering a fully remote option.
Beyond flexibility, company culture has grown to play a crucial role in attracting and retaining top talent. Half of respondents mentioned the importance of employee wellbeing, while 40 per cent said that they value open and transparent communications.
A collaborative environment is key for 35 per cent of people, while 31 per cent mentioned the importance of social interaction and team building opportunities.
Encouragingly, the need to focus on wellbeing is recognised by employers, with most business owners (67 per cent) believing that candidates value a good work-life balance the most. The report states:
“Employees prioritise higher pay, better work-life balance and career development opportunities, with flexible and hybrid working emerging as top preferences. Today’s job seekers value transparency, employee wellbeing and a positive working environment. So it’s important to invest time and energy into building a culture that supports your team. Small businesses are in a unique position to offer a close-knit, supportive environment, so be sure to keep this a top priority.”
To read the full Hiring Guide report, click here. https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/learn/blog/hiring-guide
