Most desired employers for 2023 revealed: What’s their secret?

The most sought-after organisations to work for in 2023 were revealed, with government jobs dominating the list.

The Randstad Employer Brand Research report for 2023 found that an overwhelming 48 per cent of Australians consider the public sector as the best place to work, with Randstad recognising the cost-of-living crisis as a main reason for the results.

The top 10 most desirable employers listed by Randstad are:

1. Federal Department of Defence
2. Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group
3. NSW Health
4. Queensland government
5. Federal government
6. Federal Department of Health
7. BHP
8. Virgin Australia
9. NSW Department of Communities and Justice
10. Ramsay Health Care

These results contrast last year’s when private companies took out many of the top positions. Randstad noted that lower unemployment rates and cost of living made this possible.

However, with unease in the economy, many are seeing the benefits and security that the public sector can offer. In fact, many of the top spots were rated highly for job security and financial health.

A trend recognised by Randstad is the “Big Stay”. This refers to the slowing down of job hopping as employees stay put. Sixteen per cent of Aussie workers have moved jobs in the last six months, down 21 per cent from the same time last year.

A major factor in the Big Stay is more workers focusing on career progression, said Randstad. This may be a reaction to the state of the economy, which is why Randstad said it’s important to offer upskilling opportunities. Sixty-five per cent of respondents said it’s important their employer offers development programs.

David Owens, managing director of HR Partners by Randstad, commented: “In a year which has seen significant shifts in the job market, the research suggests the Great Resignation is well and truly behind us and potentially being replaced by the Big Stay, as workers look to hunker down and ride out the current economic storm.”

“Yet with more workers staying in their roles, looking for opportunities to upskill, they may be at risk of burnout unless employers step up their wellbeing offer. Creating a workplace culture which prioritises wellness and good mental health is no longer a nice to have – it’s an essential component for attracting and retaining talent, particularly at a time when pay rises are likely less affordable and people are prepared to walk to maintain their work/life balance.”

Offering development opportunities is critical, as 30 per cent of workers said they’d quit if their career progression was limited.

Other areas that should be a major focus for employers are work/life balance, salaries and benefits, and job security, with respondents claiming they were the top three considerations, at 67 per cent, 61 per cent, and 59 per cent, respectively.

Thirty-eight per cent believe their employer doesn’t offer a good enough work/life balance, and 45 per cent believe they’d need to change employers to improve this.

Jack Campbell

Jack is the editor at HR Leader.