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Four in 10 (40%) respondents aged between 18 and 24 name a good work-life balance as their main career goal, according to research by Reed.

Its survey of 2,000 British employees also found that 17% of respondents aged between 18 and 24 want access to a maternity and paternity offering that makes looking after children affordable.

The research also found:

  • 34% of 18-24 year old respondents cite the attainment of a high salary as their career goal, and 40% cite enjoyment of their job as their main aim.
  • 26% of respondents aged 18-24 want a benefits package that works for them and their families.
  • 29% of respondents aged 18-24 are concerned that they will be unable to have both a career and build a family.

Catherine Maskell, head of global marketing at Reed, said: “These findings show us that young workers are thinking ahead and want to ‘have it all’ in the form of a happy family life and rewarding career. This gives an opportunity for employers to help them achieve just that and create packages that entice the UK’s next generation, securing the best talent along the way.

“If employers clearly communicate the benefits they offer, this will help them attract the best candidates from this forward-thinking generation. Young workers are looking for prospective employers who can show them clearly defined career paths and be upfront about potential earnings, and this transparent approach to recruitment can help create a very happy and fulfilled workforce.”