2026 candidate survey: what we heard from our community
We recently asked our candidate community what matters most to them at work. The answers were clear, and in a few places surprising.
People are ready to move
72% of the candidates we surveyed are considering leaving their job this year. That’s not a quiet market. It’s one where talented people are weighing up their options, and employers who don’t pay attention risk losing them.
Pay still leads, but not by much
When we asked what matters most when considering a new job, 47% said salary. Close behind, 42% said work-from-home flexibility, and 12% named employment benefits.
Money still talks. 49% of candidates said they’d leave a job they love for a higher-paying role, and 67% felt their salary wasn’t aligned with their skillset. For many, the gap between what they earn and what they’re worth is a live issue.
Flexibility is no longer a nice-to-have
This is where the data gets interesting. 84% of candidates would prefer better work/life balance or flexible working arrangements over a promotion. And 88% would take a job offering hybrid working over one that was full-time on-site.
For a lot of people, flexibility now sits alongside salary as a deciding factor, and it can outweigh career progression.
Wellbeing is falling short
56% of candidates felt their employer didn’t support their wellbeing. Given how many are now looking, that’s a gap worth closing.
A preference for the established
One more finding, particularly relevant to the fashion and retail space: 65% of candidates said they’d prefer to work for an established or bigger brand than a start-up fashion brand. Stability and reputation clearly carry weight right now.
The perks candidates want most
We also asked which employee benefits appeal most. The most requested were:
Work-from-home
Health insurance
Extra paid parental leave
Fitness and gym memberships
Bonus days off to support mental health
Mental health support and resources
The list leans towards benefits that give people time, flexibility and support, rather than traditional extras.
What this means for employers
If you’re hiring, the message is straightforward. Pay people fairly for their skills. Offer real flexibility. Show that you care about wellbeing. Candidates are comparing roles on all three, and the employers who get them right will have the pick of the market.
What this means for job seekers
If you’re one of the 72% thinking about a move, you’re far from alone. Know what matters most to you, whether that’s salary, flexibility or support, and be clear about it when you’re weighing up your next role.
Thinking of a change?
Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with the Frame team at hello@frameconsulting.co.nz or browse our latest roles here.