As a recruitment business owner with over 20 years of experience in the accountancy, finance, and HR recruitment fields—and having led and worked with large teams throughout my career—I’ve seen firsthand the complexities behind why candidates decide to move on. Every day, I speak with candidates about what has prompted them to explore new opportunities, and it’s rarely as simple as salary alone. The decision to leave often comes down to a collection of small frustrations that build over time.
While salary may contribute, it’s rarely the sole driving factor. What really pushes people to make a change are deeper issues. Feeling like they don’t belong, or that their contributions go unnoticed. Working for a “flexible” employer who makes them feel guilty for being a few minutes late because their three-year-old had a meltdown during the nursery run!
Add to this the broken promises and constantly shifting goalposts when it comes to promotions, bonus payments and career progression. When you dig deeper, you realise that it’s not one major event that causes employees to leave—it’s an accumulation of smaller frustrations that eventually tip the scale.
In my experience, I’ve seen how much of a difference it makes when businesses focus on the whole employee experience. If you want to retain your best talent, you have to look beyond compensation. Building a culture of trust, real flexibility (no PR stunts!), and recognition can make all the difference. Often, it’s the little things that keep people engaged, motivated, and loyal.
At Eaton Syalon, we work closely with employers who understand this. We partner with companies that are committed to creating environments where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered. We believe in finding roles for candidates in businesses that prioritise the overall employee experience, not just the salary.
So, here’s the challenge: If you’re considering a move, don’t just think about salary—think about what truly matters to you in your next role. If one of your reasons for leaving is the feeling that you’re not being valued, we’re here to help you find an employer who will recognise your worth.
If you’re ready for a change, reach out to us. Our client partners not only offer competitive compensation, but they are also focused on creating positive, supportive, and flexible work environments. Let’s find you a role where you can thrive for the long haul.
