The number of job advertisements offering support with household bills was 68 times more in 2022 than in 2021, according to new data.
Research carried out by Totaljobs found that the next biggest rise was among employers providing electric car schemes. These were promoted eight times more in last year’s job advertisements than in the previous year.
The analysis of more than 21 million job advertisements further found that in the same 12-month period, the promotion of instant wage access more than quadrupled. Four-day working weeks and a home working allowance also had a greater presence, with both doubling in comparison to 2021.
The survey of more than 7,600 professionals highlighted that almost two-fifths are not happy with their pay, with healthcare, education and social care workers the least satisfied. Nearly half (49%) of those dissatisfied believe they are paid unfairly when taking into account the rising cost of living.
A similar percentage (48%) think that their remuneration does not reflect the time and effort they invest or that it is enough to live on comfortably. A total of 16% of respondents feel their pay isn’t fair when compared to that of their colleagues.
More than four-fifths (81%) believe a higher wage would give them greater job satisfaction, while the same number say it would encourage them to feel more loyalty towards their employer.
Commenting on the findings, Julius Probst, European labour market economist at Totaljobs, said: “Recruitment has held strong despite rising economic challenges and although salaries are rising, we’re seeing massive shifts in the benefits employers are offering to attract and retain talent.
“In this market, it’s become apparent more than ever that employers must ensure they are offering salary and benefits packages which truly work for all employees. Pay, benefits, the employee experience – all of these factors are vital in attracting and retaining talent. Salary benchmarking, benefit reviews and transparent communication are key as the rising cost of living puts an even greater spotlight on pay than ever before.”
The report further revealed that two in five (41%) would sacrifice a pay rise for their most desired employee benefit, particularly for those seeking help with childcare (54%). This was followed by those wanting commuting support (52%), full-time remote working (51%) and parental assistance (49%).
