meaningful career progression:

Professionals are no longer satisfied with a linear career path. They are actively seeking opportunities for robust career progression, including both vertical and lateral growth. This involves the chance to acquire new skills and gain interdisciplinary experience, making meaningful professional development a top priority. Companies offering "career lattices" that allow for movement across functions are proving more attractive to ambitious talent.

flexibility and work-life balance:

The pandemic fundamentally shifted workplace expectations. So, what is flexibility today? It's more than just a buzzword; it's a core requirement. A lack of remote or flexible work options has become a significant driver of resignations. For many, the ability to balance professional responsibilities with personal life through enhanced flexibility is now a non-negotiable aspect of any job offer.

compensation and financial wellbeing:

While not the only factor, fair and competitive compensation is crucial for an employee's overall financial wellbeing. Stagnant salary progression is a common trigger for employees to seek external opportunities. Transparency around pay, clear pathways to future earning potential, and equitable structures are key to retention and can help prevent disputes that might lead to compensation claims.

Motivation matters: what is driving life sciences professionals beyond salary

In the highly competitive life sciences sector, attracting and retaining top-tier talent requires a sophisticated understanding of what truly motivates professionals. While a competitive salary remains a fundamental expectation, it is increasingly just one piece of the much larger puzzle that forms a compelling employee value proposition. Our latest Life Sciences & Medical Devices report reveals that the modern professional is driven by a complex interplay of factors that directly impacts employee engagement.

The key motivators shaping career decisions today include:

meaningful career progression:

Professionals are no longer satisfied with a linear career path. They are actively seeking opportunities for robust career progression, including both vertical and lateral growth. This involves the chance to acquire new skills and gain interdisciplinary experience, making meaningful professional development a top priority. Companies offering "career lattices" that allow for movement across functions are proving more attractive to ambitious talent.
flexibility and work-life balance:

The pandemic fundamentally shifted workplace expectations. So, what is flexibility today? It's more than just a buzzword; it's a core requirement. A lack of remote or flexible work options has become a significant driver of resignations. For many, the ability to balance professional responsibilities with personal life through enhanced flexibility is now a non-negotiable aspect of any job offer.
compensation and financial wellbeing:

While not the only factor, fair and competitive compensation is crucial for an employee's overall financial wellbeing. Stagnant salary progression is a common trigger for employees to seek external opportunities. Transparency around pay, clear pathways to future earning potential, and equitable structures are key to retention and can help prevent disputes that might lead to compensation claims.

"To attract and retain top talent, companies need to offer more than just a competitive salary. They need to create a positive work environment that supports career growth and work-life balance - offering flexible arrangements and meaningful professional development opportunities. This holistic approach is what truly resonates with today’s life sciences professionals."

- Stephanie Iverson, Principal Consultant in Life Sciences, Medical Devices & Pharmaceutical

By understanding and strategically addressing these core motivators, companies can craft a compelling employee value proposition that boosts employee engagement. This holistic strategy not only attracts the best talent but also fosters the loyalty and commitment needed for long-term success.

Get the complete picture on talent motivators and retention strategies. Download the full 2025 Life Sciences & Medical Devices report now.

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