Pay is an important motivator when choosing a new job, but job seekers also take into consideration factors such as company culture and job security, according to the Summer 2023 Job-Seeker Survey by Aerotek, part of the Allegis Group.

The top five motivators for job seekers to accept a new job were:

1. Pay, 86.4%
2. Positive and supportive company culture, 83.7%
3. Job security, 83.2%
4. Potential for career advancement, 77.7%
5. Work that is interesting or challenging, 60.9%

Aerotek’s survey also found 70.7% of respondents have not received a pay raise based on inflation in the past year despite the rising cost of living, and 77.3% said their overall financial situation has worsened.

The survey also asked about the most significant barrier or challenge in their current search. More than half, 53.8%, pointed to the economy and/or job market.

Allegis Group’s survey included 1,437 job seekers and took place between Aug. 4 and Aug. 22.