According to the research, 38% of HR professionals rate job satisfaction as the most important part of working. In contrast, only 17% said they valued good salary and benefits as the most important aspect of their role.
Work-life balance was chosen as the most important by 31% of HR professionals.
The report also revealed that people working in HR are the most likely to get a bonus. Out of the 11 industries surveyed 28% of HR professionals received a bonus in the 12 months from October 2013, compared to a national average of 2%.
Reed group managing director Tom Lovell said: “Now we’re out of the recession it’s no longer just about pay – employers need to consider many other factors, such as flexible working and how they can offer the greatest job satisfaction.”
Reed divisional director Gert Nzimiro added: “Employers will have to re-consider the way they recruit and retain staff. It’s not just a question of paying talented staff more money to keep them. Recruiters have to match the right personalities to the right work environment, and offer a challenging workplace with clear lines of progression in order to provide job satisfaction.”