The world of work continues to evolve, but one thing remains constant in the current job marketplace: the demand for remote and flexible work. From improved working relationships to better work-life balance, flexible work can benefit everyone—and job seekers agree.

To better understand workers’ career decisions, work preferences, and perspectives on the current job market, FlexJobs polled more than 3,000 U.S.-based professionals between August 5 and 18.

Pay raises, remote work, and healthy culture boost retention

FlexJobs’s 2024 State of the Workforce Report revealed that the majority of workers (67%) plan to change jobs in the next six months. Those surveyed indicated that the top three factors that would prevent them from leaving their jobs include a pay raise (38%), the ability to work remotely (34%), and an improved workplace culture (33%).

“Changing careers can have a profound impact on all aspects of life,” said Keith Spencer, Career Expert at FlexJobs. “It’s critical that those considering a change start with strategic planning, research, and an organized job search plan before making a decision. This preparation can help workers make more informed decisions and navigate the ups and downs of career transitions.”

In addition to better pay, remote work options, and improved company culture, the professionals polled in FlexJobs’s survey highlighted other key factors that could prevent or could have prevented them from leaving a job. Responses ranged from improved communication and leadership changes to flexible schedules and four-day workweeks.

Here’s a breakdown of the top factors that would prevent workers from leaving their jobs:

• Pay raise (38%)
• Allow remote work (34%)
• Improve workplace culture (33%)
• Improve communication and transparency between management and employees (31%)
• Offer a more flexible schedule (28%)
• Encourage a healthier work-life balance (27%)
• Make changes to management (27%)
• Offer more opportunities for promotions (26%)
• Switch to a four-day workweek (21%)
• Provide training for career advancement (20%)

Nearly one in four (23%) respondents stated that their employer instituted a return-to-office mandate in the past year, underscoring that forced in-office work arrangements are a significant pain point for many workers.

Furthermore, 35% of people said they know someone who has quit or who plans to quit their job due to return-to-office mandates, and another 57% of respondents said they would “absolutely” look for a new job if they were not allowed to continue working remotely in their current position.

When survey-takers were asked if they would look for a new job if they were not allowed to keep working remotely, the responses were as follows:

• Absolutely (57%)
• Maybe (34%)
• No (9%)