Are Irish professionals choosing future security over a better salary?
Robert Walters’ report highlights the importance of long-term financial security for Ireland’s employees.
A recent report by recruitment platform Robert Walters suggests that Irish professionals are placing a higher priority on long-term financial security over salary increases. According to the research, 62 percent of participating Irish professionals now value pension contributions over salary hikes when considering a new job. The survey, part of the Ireland Employee Benefits Guide 2027, gathered information from over 3,100 professionals, with more than 700 based in Ireland.
Tom Eaton, a director for Ireland at Robert Walters, noted a growing interest in benefits that help build wealth and financial security over time, with some professionals even prioritising pension contributions above base salary. However, despite this preference, many contributing professionals were concerned about not saving enough for retirement, and nearly half admitted to lacking confidence in the sufficiency of their pension savings.
Employers' pension schemes were found to be crucial for boosting employees' sense of financial security, with over 80 percent of those surveyed saying their employer's pension scheme contributed to their financial confidence. Comparatively, only 46 percent of those with employer pension contributions of up to 3 percent rated their overall benefits package as satisfactory, while three-quarters of those receiving contributions of 10 percent or more reported satisfaction.
Employers should consider how their benefits package supports employees' financial goals, both short- and long-term, through pension contributions, savings schemes, bonuses, or financial protection. Clear guidance and educational resources are essential to help employees understand and make the most of available support. The research found that long-term financial security, total compensation, and employer pension contributions were among the most important considerations for professionals, while pension and bonus provision strongly influenced loyalty and overall benefits satisfaction.
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