There is no doubt that if you work in the tech industry, particularly in the digital arena, the world is your oyster when it comes to work opportunitiesThe tech industry is thriving, where London, in particular, is seen as an alluring destination for those wanting to work in this sector. Yet, recent research has discovered that a staggering 75 per cent of UK tech workers would consider upping sticks and moving overseas if the right work opportunity came along.
There is no doubt that if you work in the tech industry, particularly in the digital arena, the world is your oyster when it comes to work opportunities. Studies have shown that London earns the top position as the best place to work in the global tech field. Yet, despite everything the bright lights of the Capital has to offer for tech enthusiasts, many of them would be happy to move away if they were not getting what they wanted out of a particular role.
Indeed, three-out-of-four British tech staff would move abroad if necessary to fulfil their career ambitions. This is much higher than workers in other industries, where just 61 per cent of non-tech staff would be prepared to move away for work.
The fact that those working in the tech industry have a wealth of transferable skills makes it easier for them to find work elsewhere. But, it also helps that those with tech knowledge are also in great demand on a global scale, so are in a prime position to call the shots when it comes to working arrangements and conditions.
Indeed, British tech workers know exactly what they want out of a job, and it is up to UK employers to ensure that they fulfil these criteria if they want to prevent staff from moving elsewhere.
For example, studies have found that those working in the tech sector are more motivated by having a good work-life balance than training opportunities. Tech and digital staff are also keen to work in environments where they can enjoy positive relationships with both colleagues and managers.
Interestingly, in this day and age where staff are concerned for their health and wellbeing, opportunities to promote workplace wellness and interaction with staff rank higher for tech workers than financial incentives. This shows that although money is important to tech types, it is not the be-all and end-all.
Another consistent trend that has emerged from this research is that digital staff are more concerned with the everyday operations and functions of a role than long-term training or learning opportunities.
With the British tech sector expanding at a rate that is 2.5 times faster than the economy overall and representing a UK GDP value of £184 billion, it makes sense that UK firms do their utmost to attract and retain the best talent possible. Understanding what tech workers want out of a role, and fulfilling these needs, can be the best way to retain the 75 per cent of staff who would otherwise consider moving away.
While London may be the current place-to-be for tech talent, businesses outside the Capital should also look at ways to lure talented staff out of the city and to other locations around the country.
Interestingly, it’s not just British tech staff who get itchy feet; tech workers in places such as Brazil and India would also happily move for the right role.
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