Public service employers that offer job stability, workplace flexibility and technological resources are likely to attract new talent, according to a new survey by global professional services company Accenture.
Of the 1,000 Canadians surveyed, 64 per cent said they would consider working for a government department, Crown corporation or agency in the future. Candidates are likely to take a job due to a good salary, benefits and pensions (94 per cent), technology that would improve their productivity and ability to succeed in a role (82 per cent) and the option to work from home or outside the office (93 per cent).
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“Governments and related organizations are increasingly aware of the need to recruit their next generation talent as the boomer generation begins to retire, and that will require ongoing changes to keep pace with the expectations of a younger and digitally-enabled workforce,” said Dave Telka, federal digital lead at Accenture Canada, in a news release.
The survey (which included respondents who currently work for the government) found that:
- 89 per cent would consider a move to civil service if there’s a 10 per cent increase in pay for specialty skills or high job performance;
- 88 per cent would work as a civil servant if it meant being in a responsive organization to improve service delivery and value for money, ultimately bettering the way government operates with its citizens;
- 87 percent would consider the move if it presented them the opportunity to make a difference for Canada; and
- 71 per cent of respondents would consider working as a civil service employee in B.C., 70 per cent in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, 67 per cent in Ontario, 63 per cent in Alberta, 60 per cent in the Atlantic provinces and 57 per cent in Quebec.
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According to the survey, some age groups prioritize flexible work arrangement more than others. Receiving that allowance is most important to those aged between 35 and 54-years old (91 per cent) compared to millennials (84 per cent) and baby boomers (71 per cent).
“Working with modern technologies that support workplace delivery expectations has a positive impact on employees,” said Telka. “It creates job satisfaction, increased workplace engagement and ultimately, a more productive and satisfied employee.”