As the COVID-19 pandemic enters its third year, it continues to disrupt lives without mercy, demanding constant adaptation—especially in work and employment conditions. Yet, amid restrictions and improvisations, the majority of the 5.7 million Dutch people in paid employment report striking optimism about their jobs. This emerges from BeFrank's extensive New Year's Survey 2022, based on responses from over 1,000 participants. Achieving a better work-life balance leads their New Year's resolutions.
Respondents express high overall job satisfaction and enjoyment in their work. Notably, 46% rate their satisfaction above 8 out of 10, while 31% give it a solid 7—accounting for over 75% of participants. More than 11% score it a 9, outpacing those rating 5 or below at just over 8%. About 40% note a pandemic-related dip in satisfaction, versus 10% reporting gains. Younger workers (up to 39) and highly educated professionals feel the impact most, yet the prevailing mood stays upbeat.
This positivity translates to low interest in job-switching. Among those under 30, over 20% have no desire to change employers; by age 45, this doubles, and in the 50-59 group, only 12% remain open to it. Education plays a role too: 25% of highly educated workers consider switching, compared to 10% of lower-skilled ones. Top reasons include higher salary (43%), new challenges (27%), and reduced stress (24%). When opportunities arise, 52% factor in pension terms during negotiations.
A new year prompts reflection and goal-setting, including for professional life.
1) Better work-life balance: 29%
2) Follow a course or training through work: 24%
3) Healthier lifestyle while working: 19%
4) Asking for a salary increase: 17%
5) More time for social contacts outside work: 17%
Participants view training courses and healthier habits as most achievable. Despite strong satisfaction, many see room for improvement.
1) Learn to say “No”
2) Take breaks more often
3) Exercise/sports during work more frequently
4) Better separation of work and private life
5) Less grumbling
Employers have clear paths to boost this valued satisfaction further:
1) Offer better salary
2) Foster a consistently positive atmosphere
3) Give compliments more often
4) Provide freedom to manage time
5) Offer flexibility on days off
These priorities align closely with last year's survey, with minor shifts too small for major conclusions. One exception: agreement with 'Working 40 hours a week is outdated' rose from 50% in 2020 to 58% now.
The survey also gauged perceptions of workplace sustainability compared to five years ago and its importance. Figures hold steady at around 54% seeing improvements and 52% prioritizing it—unchanged by the pandemic.
Impressively, 22% of employed Dutch already volunteer, with 14% planning to start in 2022. Half of these prospects rate their chances as high to very high.
