Job content and salary packages alone are no longer enough to convince employees. According to the study by online job portal Stepstone, many of the managers and specialists surveyed want a job that also fits in with their own lives. Although work still has a high priority, family and personal development are now just as important. For almost all respondents, their own health is the top priority. In contrast, opportunities for promotion or the pursuit of a good career have lost some of their importance. Employees also want to feel comfortable in their company. The working atmosphere and interaction with colleagues plays a major role for many - for some it is even more important than a working day with interesting tasks.

Skilled workers have great self-confidence and know the value of their qualifications. One of the reasons for this is their very strong position on the German labor market. 70 percent of respondents consider their current job to be secure - particularly sought-after professions such as IT and engineering. A third of the study participants believe that their job opportunities are better than in previous years. Seven out of ten skilled workers are certain that they will be able to find a new job within six months if necessary. A third even expect to successfully complete their job search within just three months.

The shortage of skilled workers in many occupational groups also means that employees are becoming much more flexible. The willingness to change jobs is very high. Almost half of the specialists and managers surveyed see themselves working for another employer in at least five years' time. In addition, 47 percent would relocate or commute for a job.

In order to get a new job, just over a third of respondents would compromise on salary, location, working hours and even tasks. Additional benefits such as a company car or cell phone are most likely to be sacrificed. Skilled workers are least willing to compromise on job security and their expectations of their superiors. The courage to make decisions, clear announcements and the ability to work independently are particularly important for superiors.

Specialists and managers have high expectations of the application process. More than a third of respondents abandon the application process if it becomes too complicated. A quarter refuse to apply via an online form or portal. Many of the participants see applying via smartphone as a new way to simplify and speed up the application process. The job interview is perceived as a personal introduction of the company to the applicant. An unsuccessful job interview can provide many reasons for rejecting the job offer.

The online survey for the study was conducted in spring 2016 and around 14,000 specialists and managers took part. 62 percent of participants were professionals and specialists and 38 percent were managers. Overall, 42 percent were women and 58 percent were men. The majority of respondents work in IT, engineering, sales, marketing, banking and finance and logistics.

Further information and the study can be found here.