You aren’t alone if you think you might quit your job due to bosses imposing work hours on you or taking away benefits from at-home workers.
Covid-19 has caused a lot of turmoil in workers’ lives.
The online job site CV-Library claims that 76.4 percent (or 76.4%) of UK workers intend to seek a new position in 2022.
The pandemic has caused people to shift their priorities and wants.
Flexibility, flexibility, and parental leave are now all more popular than before the pandemic.
You are thinking about quitting? Don’t! Do not!
Metlife, an insurance company and employee benefit firm revealed that 59% of employees are willing to leave if they don’t feel valued at work. 50% admitted to being willing to give up more to receive a customized employee benefits package.
However, many people are leaving because they don’t like the treatment they received from their employers in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Some employers have seen the consequences of imposing rigid working hours on employees and not being flexible.
Retraction of flexibility and benefits is just one reason that has led to a movement being called ‘The Great Resignation’ or ‘The Big Quit.
Workers are now considering what options they have, due to factors like Brexit and the possibility of people moving away during the pandemic.
This has had a negative impact on sectors such as retail, hospitality and warehousing.
Employers are now offering higher wages and bonuses to attract highly skilled or even unskilled workers.
People feel more comfortable quitting their job. They recognise that there could be better opportunities elsewhere, and that, depending on their industry, the chances of being unemployed for long may be slim.
The Great Resignation: Take advantage
Employers are now worried about their staffing levels. For those unwilling to quit their jobs, the Great Resignation offers something that may be new: leverage.
Dee Coakley (co-founder, CEO and chief executive officer of Boundless), says the lack of talent has forced companies to become more flexible in order to retain top talent.
Brian Goodwin is the chief content strategist for Lensa. He says that it’s becoming more difficult to recruit new talent in particular digital marketing sectors. There aren’t enough high-ranking applicants, which creates a skill gap.
“If your company is at a senior position in certain industries it will be difficult for them to replace you. This gives you an opportunity to negotiate better wages and benefits.
Staying in the same job can have other benefits.
Dee Coakley is the co-founder of Boundless and its CEO. She says that staying in your job means less stress.
Sometimes it can seem awkward to try and negotiate things such as flexibility, higher pay or other perks.
There are many things that you can do to keep professionalism intact during, after, and before a meeting. They include:
1. The benefits of remote working are demonstrated
Remote working may be important for you but your employer is hesitant to provide this benefit. You can try to persuade him by explaining the benefits.
You should create a plan that is clear, proactive and outlines how you will work remotely from your preferred location. Also explain why it’s better than being at the office.
Coakley states that it could be beneficial for their mental health, or allow them to spend more quality time with their kids.
2. Find out more about salaries
You should also be ready to work harder if you want more money.
Cheney Hamilton (CEO of HR consultancy Find your Flex) advises, “Highlight your value and shop around to discover what other people in your industry are earning. Glassdoor is a great resource for this. For the time that you have given your employer, write down what you would like to do and which benefits.
“Respectful delivery is important, and an offer to notice them if they don’t like it may make their mind change.”
3. Promote yourself
Your achievements are worth reminding your employer. You can use this to advocate for higher pay, flexible work hours or working remotely.
Biggins states: “You must convince your boss you are worth the additional money that you request.” You are now the right time to cheerleader for your employer and to make it difficult for them to turn you down.
Your manager should know if you are going above and beyond in your job. It is impossible to assume that your manager knows about all of your outstanding achievements.
“Do not forget your soft skills. You are an excellent employee if you’re a good team player and a mentor to other people.
4. Take into account the timing
Although you have the right timing, you might be able to ask for pay raises or perks at any given time.
Goodwin explained that timing is key. When budgets are tight, don’t ask for salary information at the beginning or end of each financial year.
“If you have recently assumed new responsibilities it’s a good time to talk about your salary.
Consider your manager’s work schedule. It is important that they are available to take the time necessary to review your request.
How to handle an employer who is unable or unwilling to cooperate
If you have worked for a company that has set rigid hours, or used remote work as a method of working, it is possible they will need to adjust their policies now because of competition.
Coakley says: “It is a talent marketplace right now, and in response, many companies are being flexible to attract or retain the best employees.
“Remaining rigid is a risk for companies and they cannot afford to become stubborn.
Begin a discussion about your benefits and pay, before you send in your notice
But if you employer is stubborn and won’t allow remote working, or any other benefits, then the only thing that will make it worthwhile for you to leave would be an open conversation.
Coakley states, “Allay their worries by asking them questions. Be prepared to show that you have done your research.
Let your loved ones know the basics of your work day, including the working hours, the places you will log in, and the reasons why you are making this move.
You can make the argument that this will increase your productivity and improve your work performance, and it is good for your employer as well.
It doesn’t matter if the results you want aren’t achieved, your research won’t go to waste. Goodwin explained that if you do not get the desired benefits and salary, you should seek out a new job.
“After all, those negotiation skills can be put to use at your next interview. You don’t have to be feeling unappreciated if you feel that way.
By Angelique Ruzicka