A new study into what makes the ‘perfect’ job has been published today and its findings are… interesting. According to researchers, UK workers believe that their ideal role involves having a boss who likes a drink after work, unlimited access to free tea and a 17-minute commute… and some have the audacity to call Brits pretentious?!
Personally, we’re confused. Surely free tea is any Brit's God-given right? And is it that hard to find a boss who likes to drink in a nation that designated off-licenses ‘essential retailers’ during a global pandemic?
A 17-minute commute though, we can see the appeal. At least, anyone who lives in London can. A commute longer than 15 minutes’ drive up north would be considered less than ideal, but down here in the Big Smoke you are genuinely lucky to find a job less than 45 minutes from home.
Perhaps we’re being slightly unfair then, as there are other findings that do make a lot more sense. According to Raja Workplace, who commissioned the survey, other necessities of the ‘perfect’ job include a 26-hour-working week with a salary of £44,000 a year - so, a 4-day working week with ample breaks then – and regular job reviews with pay rises.
Okay, so we do have some sense then - we’re not ALL about free tea and an expensed pint. But many also agreed that 29 days' holiday was a must, which seems low considering most workers are entitled to 25 days as standard… come on guys, let’s shoot for the stars here and go for the big 35?
Of the 2,000 workers surveyed, other required benefits include a day off on your birthday, duvet days on request and discounts at local gyms. A pleasant view from the office was also a nice touch, and a job that gets you out of the office was just as popular as a desk-based role.
‘It's very important to work somewhere that aligns with your lifestyle and values its employee’s needs,’ Andrew Wood, a spokesperson for Raja Workplace said. ‘There are so many different things employers must take into consideration when designing a workplace and environment for their employees. From comfy chairs to the layout of the office, and ensuring the office is stocked with plenty of tea and coffee - it’s clear from the survey results these are all things employees value within their work space.’
Andrew’s not wrong - employers would be wise to take these suggestions into account as the working environment adjusts to post-pandemic lifestyles. Because as is clear by our basic need for free tea, Brits really aren’t asking for a lot here.
Decent pay, regular breaks and the occasional team drinks… is our bar for the perfect job down there in the depths of hell along with our expectations of men?
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