Employees would choose skills development over a pay rise

A new survey has revealed that most employees would rank having access to good benefits over a salary increase.

Upskilling is the new currency in the workplace

Interestingly, having the opportunity to upskill is more important in a job than a pay rise.

This is according to Robert Half’s latest Salary Guide, which found that preferring benefits such as this marks a turning point in workplace priorities.

Just three per cent of professionals say that salary is irreplaceable in comparison.

These are the top benefits that workers would choose over a pay rise:

• An annual performance bonus (favoured by 86%)
• More time off (82%)
• Flexible work arrangements (80%)
• Professional development opportunities/upskilling (68%)
• A one-time signing bonus (67%)
• Insurance programmes (63%)
• Stock options (63%)

Employers need to rethink talent strategy

Commenting on the findings, Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director UK & Ireland at Robert Half, said, “The market is now pricing in capability, not tenure. Professionals fluent in data analytics and business intelligence, AI, project leadership, financial strategy and compliance are at the top of employers’ wish lists – and salary bands.

“What distinguishes these skills is their transferable impact. They create clarity, speed and resilience – attributes every board values in uncertain conditions. Competitive pay still matters, but the best offers now go to those who can drive performance through insight and innovation. In today’s market, skills aren’t just valuable; they are what define future growth.

“For employers, this shift means rethinking talent strategy. Developing skills is now as vital as hiring them. Training, leadership mobility and technology literacy are the levers through which firms will attract and retain top performers.

“For employees, it signals an opportunity to view career development as an investment rather than a trade-off. In the modern professional economy, skills have become the most consistent source of value.”

To find out more about contracting, please contact Jaime on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com.