The second full survey of 2021 – following the first edition carried out from 15 February to 8 March 2021 - was conducted online, among employees age 18 to 65, working a minimum of 24 hours a week in a paid job, in 34 markets, from 23 August to 12 September 2021.

The survey shows that the post-pandemic recovery is prompting workers to reconsider what they want out of their lives and careers, creating a phenomenon that Randstad defines as the ‘Great Enlightenment.’ Taking charge of their future, either in the workplace or at home, has become the defining characteristic for the post-pandemic workforce.

According to the research, over two thirds (67%) of global workers want to make changes to their work-life balance.

More than half (56%) of global workers are on a job hunt, with 30% actively looking and a quarter (26%) recently changing jobs.

On the other side, labour markets around the world are experiencing talent shortages, with millions of workers sidelined by the pandemic, excluded from the workforce or relocated to other sectors.

The acceleration of digital transformation led to important business opportunities, but, on the other side, the crisis has also left many organizations vulnerable to a growing skills gap. It is a view shared by employers and workers alike. Reskilling and upskilling have attracted the attention of organizational leaders everywhere.

Compensation remains the most important desire, but non-financial factors, such as flexible work,

remote schedules, minimal job stress and a safe work environment may be what differentiates employers in their attraction strategy.

Workers are seeking for more job flexibility, better compensation and skilling to help them remain relevant in a rapidly evolving labor market.

The shifting feelings of workers have far-reaching implications for all stakeholders, from employers to policymakers to labor organizations. How can employers adapt to these new expectations of the global workforce?

According to the research, one of the most important ways in which organizations can earn the loyalty of talent is to demonstrate empathy. A majority of workers surveyed said they felt emotionally supported by their employer. However, companies must continue to guarantee their commitment to deliver on the needs voiced by their workers. During this time of exceptional workforce fluidity, the most important consideration, said the Workmonitor, “is listening to what workers desire”.

Jacques van den Broek, CEO of Randstad said: “The pandemic has changed the game. This data shows workers across the globe are more self-aware, know what they want and are acting on it. Employers and policymakers should see this as a moment to reevaluate how they will deliver on this new social contract. Employers must consider how to bolster the benefits package — offering more flexibility or remote working — and whether employees can make work fit around their personal and family life. During this time of exceptional workforce fluidity, this is a crucial moment to step up to the challenge and meet the new expectations of employees in the war for talent.”