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Compensation top reason employees quit, Robert Half survey finds

October 23, 2014

CFOs and workers cited salary as one of the top reasons employees quit their jobs, according to research released by Robert Half International (NYSE: RHI). Twenty-eight percent of CFOs cited inadequate salary and benefits as the most likely reason good employees quit their jobs; 38 percent of employees cited the same as the reason most likely to cause them to quit.

“The stronger hiring climate today means employees who don’t feel well-compensated may be more willing to look for a new, better-paying job,” said Robert Half Senior Executive Director Paul McDonald. “Managers should regularly benchmark salaries against those of other companies in their region and industry to ensure they are at or above market standards. While many factors contribute to turnover, competitive pay and benefits can be the difference when it comes to retaining skilled talent.”

CFOs were asked, “Which one of the following is most likely to cause good employees to quit their jobs?” And workers were asked, “Which one of the following is most likely to cause you to quit your job?” Their responses:

  • Inadequate salary and benefits: CFOs, 28 percent; employees, 38 percent
  • Limited opportunities for advancement: CFOs, 22 percent; employees, 20 percent
  • Unhappiness with management: CFOs, 14 percent; employees, 16 percent
  • Overworked: CFOs, 12 percent; employees, 9 percent
  • Lack of recognition: CFOs, 12 percent; employees, 6 percent
  • Bored with their job: CFOs, 8 percent; employees, 10 percent
  • Don't know/no answer: CFOs, 4 percent; employees, 0 percent

The CFO survey included more than 2,100 CFOs from companies in more than 20 of the largest US markets. The worker survey included nearly 300 adult employees who work in an office environment in the US.