Shorter working hours more important than big pay, say employees

 

Last updated at 10:27am on 26th October 2006

Plumber: Matthew Brunwell

 

 

 

Civilised working hours are more important than a large pay packet, according to a survey today.

The poll of people hunting for new jobs found work-life balance was their top consideration.

Almost a third said they were prompted to look for a new job because they wanted to spend more time with their families and friends and less time at their desks.

Twenty-two per cent said they were in need of a complete career change and another 18 per cent said they wanted to work closer to home or were relocating.

Less than a quarter of the 500 people who responded to the survey said their main reason for leaving their employment was because they wanted a better salary.

The poll by recruitment company Select Appointments comes after research by the Trades Union Congress showed 45 per cent of employees want to work fewer hours and more than two million people - one in 10 employees - would give up some pay for a better work-life balance.

People who most want to downsize are in education and financial services. In both, nearly one in six employees wants to reduce their hours — even if it means taking a pay cut.

Sandy Jarrett of Select Appointments said: "The results show workers are more concerned with balancing their home life than getting a salary increase.

"The 'long hours culture' is becoming less acceptable and companies who offer flexible working are creating a happier workforce."

City banker Matthew Brumwell left behind a six-figure salary and a Porsche to become a plumber.

The 33-year-old resigned as a fund manager with Morgan Stanley after completing a two-year course which also qualified him as a Corgi-registered gas installer and set up business in the Cotswolds.

I completely agree.

In the words of George Michael: "You're more dead than alive in a 9 to 5.............":rolleyes: