A new survey has shown the desire for flexible working is the single biggest motivator for professionals within the construction industry to change jobs.

The average business in the construction sector has seen 8% of its workforce leave since the summer of 2020, with the principal motivator being that professionals are seeking long-term flexible working (33%).

The emphasis on work-life balance has been identified as a priority over financial incentives and job titles when considering their next move.

Skills shortage

It is no secret that construction workers are already in high demand, with construction vacancies hitting record highs and the industry expecting to need 216,000 new workers by 2025.

When top talent is so sought after, these individuals have plenty of choice when deciding their next move. Companies have already found that although advertising with competitive pay and growth opportunities, they are struggling to attract new talent.

This shift in motivations amongst construction professionals provides great opportunities for businesses to adapt and position themselves best to retain current employees and attract new talent.

Maintaining a positive employer brand is essential to attract and retain the top talent and remain competitive, particularly in this tight market. Focusing on what makes you the employer of choice: your values, vision, leadership, culture.

Essentially, your employer brand is your reputation as an employer. It consists of the different factors that make your company the employer of choice for the top talent in the industry, along with the factors that can help keep current employees engaged and happy at work.

Read more about the current construction skills shortage and the importance of employer branding here.