Nearly three in ten UK employees dream of quitting the corporate world to become their own boss, according to survey data from Robert Half.

When asked about their ultimate dream job, 28% of respondents admitted they would love to lead their own business instead of working for someone else. The research further showed that of those holding ambitions to run their own business, 23% view it as a realistic career achievement that they can aim for, and 9% see their ultimate dream role as owner of a large business, typically an organisation with more than 250 employees.

Meanwhile, 19% dream of becoming a small business owner, typically a business with less than 250 employees.

“The desired working practices of today’s workforce is changing the future of work,” Matt Weston, Director, Robert Half Management Resources, said. “We’re seeing employees looking for autonomy, flexibility and freedom. For many, there is an opportunity to leverage their skills and experience to set up their own business and become a specialist interim or contract worker supporting specific projects, business needs and challenges.”

“What’s clear is that businesses need to adapt to these changes in order to attract these more ambitious and entrepreneurial candidates,” Weston said. “As a result, employers need to cater for a working environment that demands greater autonomy and flexibility than ever before. By considering the long-term aims of both interim as well as permanent employees, businesses can enable the entire workforce to flourish.”