One in three UK workers are looking to leave their jobs for greener pastures this year, as dissatisfaction around wages and job security runs rampant.

New research by Global Payroll Association has gained insights into the amount of UK workers looking for a career change, showing widespread discontentment among workers.

About a fifth (18%) of workers said they were dissatisfied with their current role, with about one in five (18%) blaming a lack of job security, fearing they could be let go by their employee at an instant.

This contrasts the quarter of UK workers who feel ‘very secure’ in their current positions.

Wages were also a contentious issue, as about two in five (37%) of workers believe they are underpaid.

As the cost of living crisis transforms into an everyday norm, stagnating wages can drive workers to feel disaffected from their employers, forcing them to seek greener pastures to maintain quality of life.

Many report feeling stuck in their current positions as well, giving even more motivation to jump ship completely. Nearly half (46%) believe they have no opportunities to progress in their current company, while less than one in ten (9%) believe they opportunities within their company for job progression is plentiful.

Still, workers are looking for more than just a better salary and job security – a good work life balance was the most important factor for 60% of respondents, with salary at 19%.

Recommended reading

• 40% of Tech Pros Expect to Make at Least 3 Career Changes
• Tech Hiring Set to Rebound in 2025
• FinTech Scotland Cluster Sees 8% Growth in 2024

With all these factors, it makes sense that a third of workers are set to seek a new job in 2025, with a quarter (24%) aiming to look int he recruitment space, and nearly one in ten (9%) aiming to moving on within the year.

“It’s alarming to see such a large proportion of people expressing dissatisfaction at work,” Melanie Pizzey, CEO and founder of Global Payroll Association, said. “And they’re not just talking about small aggravations that everyone feels one time or another, they’re unhappy with the core elements of their career such as job security, suitable remuneration and opportunities to progress up the ladder.

“And while increasing people’s pay is difficult, not least since UK companies have come under significant pressure from recent increases in the living wage and NI contributions, they can still be doing things to maximise employee retention. To start with, listen carefully when workers say that achieving a good work/life balance is of utmost importance, and take care to clearly explain to employees what opportunities lay in their future should they perform well.

“These simple considerations can supercharge job satisfaction, increase loyalty, and improve retention; ultimately improving bottom lines.”