One-third (30%) of UK workers are ‘very often’ or ‘often’ expected to work over their contracted hours of employment. However, 70% of employees believe it is unreasonable for their employers to ask them to work beyond their
contracted hours without overtime pay. This is according to research conducted by OnePoll* on behalf of NGA HR.
As a result, two-thirds (66%) of the nation’s workforce is asking for more flexible working as a way to deal with increasing workloads. Over half (53%) of respondents believe eight hours is an acceptable working day and the research has raised concerns over the work/life balance of full-time employees.
When looking at a job role, ‘work/life balance’ is desired by the majority (66%), considered second only to ‘salary’ (79%). Additionally, the top three benefits expected by employees, above anything else, are: pension provision (54%), flexible working arrangements (52%) and a generous holiday allowance (50%).
Ian Dowd, marketing director, NGA HR UK, said: “Our research highlights a disconnect between employers and employees. As employees object to working non-contractual hours, flexible working demands are on the rise. This coincides with the growing need for a better work/life balance, which directly affects the jobs people are applying for.”
The survey also revealed that only one-third (30%) of employees felt ‘very confident’ about finding a new job if they decided to leave their current position.
Dowd continued: “Employees have cited flexibility as an expected benefit from their employer, second only to pensions. Additionally, it is a major factor when looking for employment. However, this is not reflected in their workday. Thousands of workers go the extra mile every week. This is likely to be a result of a number of different factors - some will fear finding another job elsewhere whilst others enjoy their work and feel the need to stay on and get the job done.”
*Research Methodology
OnePoll conducted this research on behalf of NGA HR. It comprised of 1,500 respondents, working full-time in organisations based in the UK.
About NGA HR
NGA HR, formerly NorthgateArinso, is a global leader in helping organisations transform their business-critical HR operations to deliver more effective and efficient people-critical services. We help our clients become better employers through smarter, more streamlined business processes — to save money, manage employee life cycles, and support globally connected, agile organisations. This is how NGA makes HR work.
What sets us apart is The NGA Advantage. It’s a combination of deep HR experience and insight, advanced technology platforms and applications, and a global portfolio of flexible service delivery options.
Founded in 1969, NGA has over 44 years of experience in the IT industry. As a recognised global HR services leader, we have offices in 35 countries on five continents, supporting customers in more than 145 countries.
