A recent report from Harvey Nash reveals that 50% of tech workers in the UK plan to leave their jobs in the next year. This survey, which spanned 44 countries, shows that this figure surpasses the global average of 45%. The biggest motivator for these UK employees? A desire for better pay. Over 40% are also interested in advancing their careers, and 31% are searching for companies with a different culture.
Andy Heyes, managing director for Harvey Nash in the UK and Ireland, pointed out that the UK tech environment has faced its challenges. Workloads have increased, and many are left wondering if opportunities elsewhere might be better. The UK has a mobile tech workforce with plenty of contractors and freelancers, and younger generations tend to switch jobs frequently. The so-called “Big Stay” trend this year, linked to market conditions, may fuel this urge for change.
The hiring landscape for tech roles has shifted dramatically in the past five years. Initially, the Covid-19 pandemic spurred a surge in tech hiring to help people navigate lockdowns. Then came the “great resignation,” where many tech workers left their positions to seek new pathways. Lately, though, there’s a sense of uncertainty with whispers of needed layoffs and budget cuts looming.
Today, tech workers are becoming selective about their workplaces. The report highlights that employees expect more from their employers—things like flexible work arrangements and improved healthcare benefits. Globally, 80% of employees believe their organizations back their mental and physical well-being, but firms need to do more. Support for hybrid work is prevalent, with over half of employees feeling very supported in this area.
Flexibility is crucial for attracting diverse talent. Women often leave tech roles or the industry altogether because of rigid work arrangements. Interestingly, nearly 40% of employees aren’t required to be in the office at all, while 34% prefer zero office days. Women, especially, prefer to limit their in-office presence to just one or two days a week.
Despite these steps, the report reveals a paradox regarding diversity in tech. While 83% of employees believe their company promotes diversity, the actual representation still lags behind. Women frequently take different paths in their tech careers. For example, 42% of women work as contractors compared to 33% of men. This trend is likely tied to the flexibility that contracting provides, which many women value for achieving work-life balance.
When it comes to entering the tech sector, 52% of employees got their technology knowledge from university. Other routes include 15% through industry training, and 8% via apprenticeships. Women tend to come from non-traditional backgrounds; more than half transitioned into tech after starting their careers elsewhere. They also significantly outnumber men in entering tech through apprenticeships.
Hayes emphasizes that this signals a need for the tech industry to improve its outreach to girls and young women. While more women appreciate the potential careers in tech, many first explore other fields before realizing the opportunities available. The industry is also recognizing the value of mature workers returning after career breaks, tapping into diverse talent pools.
Still, organizations face barriers in finding skilled workers. A significant 34% of respondents mentioned that a lack of appropriate skills hampers their ability to execute automation strategies.
While many tech firms are now focused on automation and Artificial Intelligence, 41% of employees express difficulty in forming effective AI strategies, with 30% feeling unprepared for the impacts of generative AI on their roles. To combat the skills gap, companies are increasing training for emerging technologies, but concerns linger about diversity within AI development teams. Without varied perspectives, there’s a risk of bias creeping into technology design.
Bev White, CEO of Nash Squared, which owns Harvey Nash, stated that the UK tech market is ever-evolving, providing opportunities for those looking to enter the field. As organizations strive to leverage AI, understanding the perspectives and needs of tech talent is crucial for retaining skilled individuals. In this competitive landscape, attracting and holding onto the right talent can truly make the difference for business success.
