A clear favourite was a 5 per cent pay rise which 37% opted for. The second most popular choice was financial assistance and time-off to pursue a professional qualification; voted for by 32% of the 500 plus respondents. Less popular was an extra week's holiday which just 21% chose. Trailing in last place was flexible working hours which a mere one in ten opted for.
Reflecting on the results, Dan Hawes co-founder of GRB, said, "The popularity of a pay increase is almost certainty a reflection of the financial pressures that graduates face in the current climate. Rising student debt and a degree of wage stagnation present many graduates with budgeting challenges. However, in spite of these financial pressures, one in three of the respondents selected employer support to achieve professional qualifications, emphasising the importance that graduates place on their professional development. They really do want to earn and learn."
Hawes continued, "Having more time off or more control over your working hours turn out to be significantly less popular gifts to find in Christmas stockings, suggesting that today's graduates are adopting a more pragmatic approach to their careers. An extra week's holiday, while a 'nice to have' benefit, does not pay the bills or advance your career. If employers are tuned into their graduate recruits it is one step closer to having happier and more productive staff in their firm."
For information on aspects of graduate remuneration, benefits and incentives please contact the GRB team today by email [email protected].
