More than three-quarters (79%) of employee demands towards HR directors and C-suite professionals are for higher pay, according to new research from Barnett Waddingham.
The professional services consultancy surveyed 302 HR directors and C-suite professionals for its latest report. It found that when asked how concerned they were about business pressures, employee demands were the most significant issues, with greater working flexibility (78%), a stronger value and purpose (77%) and more hybrid working (73%) among the top-rated concerns.
One-fifth (22%) of respondents reported feeling very stressed, while 17% feel unable to keep up with the pace of change at work. More than one-quarter (28%) feel there are too many demands on their time at work and 16% are uncertain on what they should prioritise in their role.
Many respondents were also conflicted on employee demands, with 51% feeling demands were unrealistic and that they felt the balance of power in the workplace often sits in favour of employees.
Julia Turney, partner, platform and benefits at Barnett Waddingham, said: “It should come as no surprise to anyone that we are now dealing with workforces who are not afraid to voice their priorities to employers, but will quickly move on if a job doesn’t suit their needs. While this can make it easier for businesses to quickly understand the needs of their workforces, it is also clearly placing a lot of pressure on HR leaders who are struggling to prioritise responding to their demands.
“With this in mind, now has never been more important than ever for employers to take a data-led approach to their HR function. As employee demands increase, having the right intelligence is vital to make informed, and accurate decisions that benefit both staff and an organisation as a whole. HR directors and C-suite professionals should consider the tools available to support them in this respect, and work with partners to ensure they can effectively prioritise.”