39% of public sector employees frustrated with lack of tech are considering leaving their jobs

Workers’ frustrations with tech are being fuelled by a growing disconnect between the expectations and priorities of employers and a new generation of digitally native employees. Over a fifth (21%) of CIOs and HR directors say that their workforce’s flexibility demands are unrealistic and unreasonable, while almost three-quarters (73%) agree that some employee expectations are incompatible with the needs of the business. Almost a fifth (18%) of HR directors also claim that a generational divide is preventing them from feeling more connected to their employees.

This disconnect is hindering the retention of talent in the public sector, as employers undervalue the importance of technology in aiding flexible and collaborative work. Over a third (35%) of leaders surveyed believe that career development opportunities have the greatest impact on whether an employee stays with a company - yet employees themselves say access to technology (18%) and digital collaboration tools (21%) would keep them in their role. Over a quarter (27%) say they would resign if flexibility wasn’t offered.

The findings come as public sector budgets are squeezed due to current economic conditions. A fifth (20%) of CIOs cite lack of budget to provide the right supporting technology as the main barrier to delivering on employees’ flexibility demands.

Julian Broster, VP of Strategic Business Development at Apogee, commented: “Employees are sending a clear signal on what they need and expect from their workplace. Public sector leaders must now take heed and invest in the right technology and collaborative digital tools to help their staff effortlessly connect with each other, no matter where they are working. Even with a tight budget, employers can leverage cost-effective solutions to strengthen engagement and productivity across hybrid working environments – and help the sector avoid a costly exodus of talent.”