Nearly half, or 39%, of UK office workers cite a better work-life balance as the main reason they would leave their job, according to research by Robert Half.

Robert Half’s research also showed that in addition to work-life balance, the other biggest factors employees cite as reasons for leaving their current role are higher remuneration (38%) and flexible working hours (32%). Overall, 29% of office workers are considering moving jobs in the next year, driven by these three factors.

The reasons for moving jobs vary significantly across different age groups.

Office workers between the ages of 16 and 24 are most likely to job hop, with two in five (38%) considering a switch in the next year, compared to 28% of those aged 35+. These younger workers are as likely to leave their current role to further advance their career (40%) as they are to achieve a better work-life balance (41%).

This age group also places greater importance on corporate culture (19%) than higher remuneration (17%), highlighting the significance of a strong employer brand. The study reveals increased remuneration does not become the key motive for a job move until the age of 35+.

“Employees are bullish about their prospects in a market shaped by the ongoing talent dilemma,” Robert Half stated. “One third (32%) believe their skill set will be more desirable in the coming months, while a further one in three (33%) believe they will continue to receive multiple job offers with competitive salaries.”