Poll Results vs. Real Talk: What’s Really Driving Job Moves in B2B Events Right Now?
Earlier this week, I ran a poll on LinkedIn asking one simple question: If you had to choose just ONE thing that matters most to you at work right now, what would it be?
The results so far:
- Money – 44%
- Stability – 26%
- Culture – 16%
- Progression – 14%
On the surface, this data paints a clear picture: money leads. And that makes sense in today’s climate – with rising costs and shifting salary expectations, compensation is top of mind for many.
But here’s what’s interesting: what I hear in interviews often tells a different story.
When I speak with candidates, especially those actively looking to move, they rarely cite money as the main reason they’re leaving their current role, yes it’s in the mix but not the front runner. More often, it comes down to lack of progression and poor culture fit.
They’re saying things like:
- “There’s nowhere for me to go here.”
- “The culture has changed and I don’t feel aligned anymore.”
What I haven’t heard (at all in recent weeks) is anyone prioritising stability. And that’s surprising, given how often we assume job security is the safety net people are clinging to in uncertain times.
So, what does this all mean?
Well, maybe people are choosing “money” in polls because it’s the most tangible answer. It’s easy to say. It’s easy to justify. But in reality, once we’re in conversation, and people feel safe to be honest, the drivers are more personal: feeling stuck, feeling disconnected, wanting purpose or momentum.
It also raises a question for me as a recruiter: Am I probing deeply enough during registration calls? Are candidates defaulting to “better pay” as their reason for moving because it’s easier than unpacking a more complex truth?
Either way, I’m not judging. Job moves are rarely about one thing, even if polls force us to pick just one. But if you’re thinking about your next move, or even trying to improve retention in your current team, it’s worth asking: Is this really about the salary? Or is something deeper going unspoken?
I’d love to hear your thoughts – especially if you voted in the poll.
How can you contact me? E:helen@jbrecruitment.co.uk | T:0203 488 2620
About Jackson Barnes Recruitment
Jackson Barnes Recruitment delivers international recruitment solutions within the events, media, and publishing sectors. Jackson Barnes recruits Graduate to MD level in the following positions:
• Sales – delegate, sponsorship & Business Development
We recruit for organisations in the UK and overseas, with success in London, Dubai, New York, Singapore and Australia.