The majority, or 79%, of employees in Vietnam are looking for new career prospects over the next six months amid a wave of resignations in the country, according to research from Michael Page Vietnam.

Michael Page notes that the ‘Great Resignation’ has been happening in Vietnam for the past two years and is set to continue intensifying in 2022. Nearly half, or 42%, of employees who have been at their current jobs for not more than two years are also looking for new career prospects over the next six months.

Meanwhile, the research showed that while salaries, bonuses, and rewards are still top motivators for candidates, Michael Page noted a big swing towards non-monetary benefits with 68% of respondents in Vietnam willing to forgo pay rise and/or promotion for better work-life balance, overall well-being, and happiness.

Mark Donnelly, Country Head of Michael Page Vietnam, said, "Investing in employees is a key retention strategy. Adopting technology means employees need to fill in skills gaps. And with small talent pools in a highly competitive environment, upskilling and reskilling the employees you already know is critical. Those who are ill-equipped may feel unmotivated and could consider leaving the company."

Further research from Michael Page showed that 66% of respondents want a hybrid work arrangement between working from home and the office. Most, or 68%, of Vietnamese will consider asking about a company's DE&I policy at interviews and 32% say the lack of clear DE&I commitment would stop them from actively pursuing a job opportunity.

The research also found that the pandemic has shifted priorities, with 68% of candidates value well-being over money.  Half, or 50%, of respondents say that their workload has increased compared to before Covid-19 while 85%, believe that their company does not take active steps to ensure work-life balance.