Marvin OnumonuOver half of UK marketers said they would turn down a promotion if it put their wellbeing at risk, according to the 2025 Talent Trends report by Michael Page.
The report found that 54% of marketers in the UK and globally would reject a step up at work if it meant worse work-life balance.
The study also showed that work-life balance is the top priority for marketers, ranking above sectors like HR, legal, finance, engineering, manufacturing and technology.
Across the sector, 44% of UK marketers were looking for a new job, with wellbeing and balance as key drivers.
The report described a ‘wait-and-see workforce’, with candidates holding out for jobs that match their needs.
Additionally, the report found that 96% of UK marketers and 88% globally ranked work-life balance as a top priority.
At the same time, 51% of marketers in the UK did not trust their leaders to balance employee wellbeing with business performance.
This uncertainty led to 27% of UK marketers thinking about leaving their jobs because of decisions made by leadership.
Becca Moore, associate director, marketing at Michael Page, said: “Professionals today have a clear sense of what they want from the workplace: balance, wellbeing, and flexibility.
“Leaders who embrace transparency in these areas foster a culture where people can truly thrive – because clear, consistent communication around these priorities doesn’t just set expectations; it empowers employees to bring their best selves to work.
“In today’s competitive talent market, clarity isn’t just valued – it’s a key differentiator in attracting top talent: those who are actively seeking the right role but holding out for one that truly aligns with their values and motivations.”
Purpose and culture were also important, with 46% of UK marketers saying purpose was a key factor when considering a new job.
The number of UK marketers who wanted their values to align with their employer rose to 50%, up from 36% last year.
However, only 28% of UK marketers felt they could be themselves at work, and only 34% said their workplace was inclusive.
Use of artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing rose, with 66% of UK marketers saying they now use AI at work, with 85% of global marketers using it weekly and 40% daily.
Even with this uptake, 67% of UK marketers said they had not been properly trained to use AI.
More than half said they did not have access to AI tools through their employer.
Moore added: “In today’s market, candidates are prioritising certainty. Amidst a ‘wait-and-see’ hiring landscape – where both hiring managers and candidates are being especially considered in their choices – the organisations winning the race for top talent are those that are transparent and decisive with their policies in areas such as AI, salary, and employee wellness.
“Clarity is no longer just important; it’s essential.”
