Randstad Survey: What Women Want from Employers

Respondents Rated Flexibility & Adaptability as Top Skills for Career Growth

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Nov 14, 2012, 07:00 ET

ATLANTA, Nov. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- As the workplace continues to evolve, more workers are not only taking on additional responsibilities, but many are learning skills outside of their traditional roles. Thus, it's not surprising that a newly released study today by Randstad US shows that flexibility and adaptability are two top skills women need to succeed in the workplace. Just over half of women surveyed, 51 percent, reported these skill-sets as one of the top two most important, followed by knowledge of technology (selected by 37 percent) and teamwork (selected by 35 percent), respectively.

In Randstad's latest Engagement Index study, women's insights and perspectives on work and employee engagement were highlighted, as well as how women viewed the economy's impact on their jobs.

While 57 percent of women said they expect to grow their careers with their current employers, 48 percent of women still plan to explore other options when the job market picks up
Forty-one percent of women noted they would give a lot of consideration to a job offer given to them by a different company or organization

"Women are taking on leadership roles and advancing to the top levels of organizations faster than ever before. It is, therefore, critical that companies not lose sight of what it takes to successfully identify, retain and engage high potential women," said Linda Galipeau, Randstad CEO of North America. "We believe it is crucial for more executives, both men and women, to actively serve as sponsors for the next generation of female leaders. Not only is it essential for women to have access and visibility to senior executives, but it's equally important for organizations to have a clearly defined strategy for developing women for the top roles while ensuring they are willing and able to throw their hats in the ring when the time is right."

Other notable findings:

Sixty percent of women indicated that having their efforts valued and recognized is one of the most important elements. Only 63 percent feel that their efforts are, in fact, recognized and valued
Also ranking towards the top, 53 percent of women indicated that one of the key elements driving their commitment to their jobs is enjoying going to work each day
How can employers better engage their employees? Promotions and bonuses for high-performing employees, according to 39 percent of women surveyed. However, only 24 percent of respondents stated their companies offered such perks

In an effort to showcase dynamic and inspirational leaders who have successfully navigated and thrived in their organizations, Randstad will hold its first US "Women Powering Business" panel discussion this morning. The panel will feature top female leaders in the Atlanta area who will discuss strategies and give advice to women navigating their career paths. Susie Wolff, development driver for the Williams F1 racing team, of which Randstad is a partner, will also be participating and sharing some of her career milestones and key insights to her success.

Additionally, Randstad launched its Women Powering Business section on its Workforce360 thought leadership site. This section will include the latest research and trends shaping the way women work. For more information, as well as other research insights, advice and career resources, visit www.randstadusa.com/workforce360.

Methodology
The Randstad Engagement Index is comprised of findings from quarterly waves of research targeting employees and annual surveys of employers. The fifth wave of findings was conducted online June 28 - July 18, 2012 from a national sample of 3,251 adults (including 1,430 women) aged 18 and older who are currently employed full time from Ipsos' U.S. online panel.

Weighting was used to balance demographics and ensure samples reflect the U.S. population of working adults.

Employees and employers were surveyed to compare notable differences in perceptions and attitudes. Multiple waves of research allow for trending and to track changes in perceptions and attitudes over time. Research into employee attitudes and perceptions will be conducted quarterly. Research into employer attitudes and perceptions will be conducted on an annual basis.

About Ipsos Public Affairs
Ipsos Public Affairs is a non-partisan, objective, survey-based research practice which conducts strategic research initiatives for a diverse number of American and international organizations, based on public opinion research. They are the international polling agency of record for Thomson Reuters, the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals. To learn more, visit: www.ipsos-pa.com.

About Randstad US
Randstad is a $22.5 billion global provider of HR services and the second largest staffing organization in the world. From temporary staffing to permanent placement to inhouse, professionals, search & selection, and HR Solutions, Randstad holds top positions around the world and has approximately 28,700 corporate employees working from its nearly 4,700 branches and inhouse locations in 40 countries. Founded in 1960 and headquartered in Diemen, the Netherlands, Randstad Holding nv is listed on the NYSE Euronext Amsterdam.

Learn more at http://www.randstad.com.

SOURCE Randstad