The new research suggesting Londoners want to change jobs in 2019

New independent research among over 2,000 UK adults commissioned by Studio Graphene, has revealed how satisfied full-time workers in London are in their job.

It has found that 37 per cent of full-time employees in London plan to change jobs in 2019, seven per cent higher than the national average (30 per cent).

Around 34 per cent would take a lower salary if they could have a more satisfying role or better work-life balance.

Studio Graphene’s research demonstrates that large sections of London’s employment sector are unhappy in their role, with 37 per cent planning to find a new job this year, and 36 per cent feeling they did not develop professionally in 2018.

The survey also shows that across the country there are a particularly high proportion of dissatisfied employees within large organisations (those with more than 250 employees) compared to micro (one to nine) and small (10 to 49) businesses.

High salaries do not rid employees of their concerns, too. Almost half (46 per cent) of people who earn over £75k said their skills are not properly utilised at work, with even more saying they could do a better job than their manager.

Ritam Gandhi, founder and director of Studio Graphene, said: “Today’s research shows just how many people in London were dissatisfied by their work in 2018.

“One of the reasons is because there are so many elements employers must get right: from culture and work-life balance through to salaries and professional development, people are increasingly looking for a complete package, not just an idle ‘9 to 5’.

“Londoners are more dissatisfied with their current work when compared to the rest of the UK, and it is also interesting to note that people working in large companies or earning high salaries are among the least content.

“That is certainly one factor that has drawn so many people to launch or join a startup – this is where people feel they are more valued and engaged as an employee, while it can also fast-track their professional development.

“As someone who both runs a startup and works with startups, I know how important it is to instil the right culture in a small team and ensure staff have the right work-life balance.

“But this is a difficult task; one must put appropriate structures in place while still treating everyone as adults, giving them the freedom to express themselves and reach their potential.”