Charity job candidates say flexible working is now almost as important as salary when choosing an employer to work for.

The survey of 3,000 candidates carried out by sector recruitment platform CharityJob found that 88% consider flexibility important when weighing up a role, and 91% say salary is the most vital factor.

CharityJob notes that flexibility has “surged” in importance, with 50% saying it is now “very important”, compared to 38% saying the same three years ago.

Female workers are more likely to prioritise flexibility, say researchers, as they place a greater importance on remote working options.

However, researchers also found that demand outstripping supply of flexible roles. While 71% want the freedom to choose their working location and office days, only 53% of those working in the sector say they receive this.

A four-day week on full pay is also a popular option but again demand overshadows the number of employers offering this flexibility. While 5% work a four-day week, this option is desired by 23%.

"The message from candidates is clear: flexibility is no longer viewed as a perk. It's an expectation,” said CharityJob marketing director Claire Griffiths.

“While salary remains a significant consideration, people are increasingly evaluating opportunities based on the overall employment experience.

“Flexibility, wellbeing, workplace culture and opportunities for development all play an important role in how candidates assess potential roles.”

Researchers also note that “25- to 35-year-olds were most likely to select salary as the most important factor when considering a new job, reflecting the increasing financial responsibilities of this age group”.

Meanwhile, organisational culture is more important to 36–44-year-olds than among any other age group.

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