Humans are the first movers in the entire supply chain, but a significant majority of Filipino technology professionals have yet to make career pivots to enhance their skills set, more believe it is the responsibility of employers to train people, and are also the least willing among their peers to accept a paycut when joining a brand with industry leadership position, according to a study.
The study conducted by Opinium Research as commissioned by Amadeus, the world’s leading travel technology solutions provider, revealed that almost two-in-three technology professionals (63%) said they would be willing to take a pay cut to work at a company they perceive to be a top brand or leader in their sector. This number was highest in India (84%) and the UK (74%) and, with those from Turkey (49%) and the Philippines (37%) least willing to take a pay cut, the survey revealed.
Overall, five percent of respondents said they would take a significant 40 percent pay cut to work at the companies they deem to be the lead in their sector. Furthermore, younger workers were more willing to take a pay cut, with 71 per cent of those aged 18- to-34 reporting they would do so, compared to 58 per cent of those aged 35-to-54 and 40 per cent of those aged 55+.
The study said that this particular result showed that industry leadership position of a company or brand is “everything”.
Today, more than nine-in-ten (95 percent) technology professionals believe the company they work for is innovative, while the same number say it is important that the company the work for is perceived to be innovative.
Despite their unwillingness to take a pay cut, the study revealed that 76% of tech professionals in the Philippines anticipate two or more career pivots to enhance their skill sets.
Globally, the research showed that 94 percent of tech professionals see career changes ahead and will leave if they don’t get the right training. This, as workers view training as top among five major priorities.
Aside from financial incentives, training on completely new technologies and flexible working hours top as the most important focus of company to prevent tech employees from moving elsewhere.
The report further said that seven out of 10 tech professionals in the country, believe that relevant upskilling opportunities in emerging technologies can prevent job hopping.
Filipino tech workers are no different from other professionals surveyed, putting the responsibilities on employers to train people.
Further global tech professionals at innovative companies are over five times more likely to say they were very happy at work.
Meantime, one notable finding is that aside from financial incentives, the study showed that 72% of tech professionals believe that access to relevant upskilling opportunities in emerging technologies – offered by their employers – can deter them from seeking job opportunities elsewhere.
This data underscores a critical shift within the workforce, as professionals increasingly seek employers that prioritize upskilling and innovation. Nearly half of the respondents express a strong desire to work for companies that leverage cutting-edge technologies.
Interestingly, one in four tech workers are willing to accept a pay cut to join a brand recognized for its industry leadership.
An impressive 78% of tech professionals report feeling inspired to innovate within their companies, however 67% feel that automating mundane tasks can help free up creative thinking space to significantly enhance their ability to innovate.
Moreover, the importance of a well-designed workspace cannot be overlooked, as 74% of tech workers assert that having the right tools – such as desks, equipment, and technology – is vital fostering innovation. This underscores the urgent need for employers to create environments that not only support technological advancement but also empower their teams to thrive creatively.
Eleanor Morales, Site Lead of Amadeus in the Philippines, commented on the findings:
“In a world where technology evolves at lightning speed, the ability to pivot is no longer a choice—it’s a strategic imperative. Our report reveals that Filipino tech professionals are ready to embrace change as a catalyst for growth. By investing in upskilling and fostering an innovative, flexible workplace, companies can unleash a new era of creativity and resilience. The future belongs to organizations that recognize that career satisfaction transcends financial rewards; it’s about nurturing a culture where talent can thrive. Those who champion this vision will not just retain top talent; they will redefine the tech landscape of tomorrow.”
Flexibility, well-being drive employee satisfaction
Workplace flexibility has emerged as another crucial driver of job satisfaction in the tech industry. An impressive 68% of tech professionals view flexible hours as a key factor influencing their decision to stay with or leave an employer. This flexibility goes hand in hand with collaboration; 61% believe that face-to-face interactions are essential for brainstorming and enhancing innovation.
The importance of a supportive work environment is underscored by the growing demand for a positive work-life balance. 57% of respondents are actively seeking workplaces that prioritize their well-being and psychological safety. This shift in priorities, notably amplified by the pandemic, reflects a broader expectation among Filipino tech workers. Today’s employees are looking for more than competitive salaries; 67% desire a workplace culture that nurtures both personal and professional growth, emphasizing the need for organizations to adapt and create environments that support their teams holistically.
Shaping the future of work in PH
The future of the tech industry hinges on adaptability and innovation, according to the report. By embracing upskilling, fostering creativity, and prioritizing flexibility, organizations can create vibrant cultures that attract and retain top talent. This is more than a strategy; it’s a vision for a workplace where employees thrive, driving transformation and shaping the next era of technology.
Opinium Research surveyed 2,200 technology professionals across eight markets, including the Philippines, in the third quarter of 2024. Respondents were aged 18-55+ and represented a diverse cross-section of technology professions. Open-ended questions were analyzed by Mercury Analytics.
