Adecco Group, the world leader in human resources management, presents the second portion of its fourth edition, Global Workforce of the Future 2023. This study focuses on employees’ medium and long term perspectives so that organizations can prepare for upcoming changes and support their teams. The second section explores key issues for organizations, including whether employees intend to resign or stay, the importance of training, and the risk of burnout.
In the words of the Adecco Group Talent Director, Alberto Gavilán: At Adecco Group we recognize that competitive pay, a healthy balance between work and personal life, and preventing fatigue are crucial for retaining top talent.
In recent years, acquiring new skills has become essential to stay current and competitive. Education and ongoing development are vital for economic growth. To retain and engage employees, employers should encourage lifelong learning, career progression, and internal mobility opportunities, which can matter as much as salary when deciding to stay or leave. Organisations should help workers keep their skills up to date by investing in development at every level.
The value of skill development and resilience
The Global Workforce of the Future 2023 indicates that many employees plan to stay with their current employers over the next year, with a focus on access to education and opportunities for career advancement. For some, advancement within their present organization is a primary goal, while others seek improved qualifications for a new role within the same company.
Investments in education are rising. In Spain, a majority report that their employer actively supports skill development, and many plan to take greater control of their own growth.
The report highlights that workers expect to navigate a dynamic job market, including shifting roles and even industries as needed. A notable share believe their skills can transfer to different functions or sectors. A smaller portion anticipate leaving their current employer within the coming year, though this figure shows a slight decrease from the prior year. A small minority are uncertain about their options.
The main reasons cited for staying include stability, work life balance, good colleague relationships, favorable working conditions, and recognition of skills. Conversely, the primary reason some workers consider leaving is the prospect of higher salaries elsewhere. Beyond compensation, personal aspirations, entrepreneurship, career progression, job satisfaction, and concerns about burnout influence decisions to move on.
These dynamics are shaped by broader factors such as cost of living and wage progression in relation to inflation. A significant share of workers in Spain feel their salaries are fair, reflecting perceived value aligned with market conditions.
Burnout as a common challenge
The report finds that burnout affects a large portion of Spanish workers, with a substantial number fearing it in the future. Even in a country with relatively high fatigue indicators, respondents report notable levels of work related fatigue.
Many attribute burnout to increased responsibilities after layoffs or workforce reductions, or to insufficient support from leadership. Regular breaks and adequate holiday use are cited as practical protections, yet a considerable percentage of workers feel unsupported when taking time off.
Methodology
Global Workforce of the Future 2023 is a global study that surveys employees and managers across numerous markets. The data were collected in 23 countries where Adecco Group operates, including a representative sample of Spain with thousands of respondents from varied sectors. The study used a wide sampling method to ensure national representativeness by age and gender, with results reflecting a high level of confidence.
About Adecco Group
Adecco Group is a leading consultancy in human resources. The group has deep roots in the Spanish job market and supports a vast network of clients and workers. The organization drives significant hiring activity and invests substantially in training and development. The reach extends through a broad delegation network and a large workforce. For more information, the group maintains a strong presence in the Spanish employment landscape and emphasizes ongoing investment in its people.