Flexible working hours. That is the main reason why dissatisfied employees in executive roles remain with their current employers - at least according to the global research by Accenture entitled The Path Forward that involved 3,900 executives of medium and large companies in 31 countries (50% men and 50% women).
57% of women and 59% of men polled said they are not currently satisfied with their jobs. 69% of all the respondents, however, do not plan to leave. 64% of them stay because of flexible working hours.
When asked when they see the greatest obstacle to the development of their careers, the majority of respondents (42%) mentioned lack of opportunities or a vague career direction in the current companies. 20% see the greatest obstacle in their family obligations. On the contrary, 30% see no obstacles. Most respondents take various steps to actively manage their careers. 58% accept new roles and responsibilities, 46% use more education and training and 36% work longer hours.
"Since the majority of today's professionals are not job hunting, leading companies must capitalize on this moment in time to equip their people with clearly defined career paths that include innovative training, leadership development and opportunities for advancement," Adrian Lajtha, Chief Leadership Officer at Accenture, summarized the results of the research. The challenge for companies is also how to help employees integrate their careers in the wide range of their life obligations.
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