We surveyed Cheshire-based office professionals to understand their intentions for 2026
Roles we surveyed included Administration, Customer Service, Accounts, HR and Marketing, giving a well-rounded picture of what people across the region are prioritising in their working lives.
The responses highlight a shift in how employees are making career decisions. The report offers practical insight for SMEs across Cheshire who want to strengthen both recruitment and retention strategies by understanding what their workforce genuinely values.
Key insights from across the Cheshire workforce:
The findings provide a timely overview of the mindset of Cheshire’s office-based workforce for 2026. For local employers, the data serves as a useful checkpoint when reviewing retention plans, shaping recruitment messaging and building packages that genuinely appeal to the people they want to attract and keep.
People Actively Looking
60% of respondents said they are either open to moving roles this year or actively looking
Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance was the most commonly selected career priority, with flexibility and progression also ranking highly
Career Priorities
Salary was the least selected top priority, yet it remains the most common reason people would consider leaving their role
Hybrid Working
Hybrid working is now the clear preference, with 88% choosing it over fully remote or fully office-based arrangements
Flexibility Preferences
More than half of those without the flexibility they need in their current role said they would accept a reduction in salary to gain it, most commonly up to £2,000
To view the full findings, including detailed breakdowns, charts and practical takeaways, download the full report below
Download Report
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