Workers rate job security ahead of pay amid concerns about redundancies this year

81% of New Zealand workers are concerned about redundancies occurring at their company in 2025
37% of workers prioritise their job security ahead of pay this year
To prepare for possible redundancy, 47% of workers are pursuing further training to improve their marketability, while 54% are passively looking for a new job

Auckland, 20 March 2025 – Fear about potential redundancies this year has made job security a paramount concern for workers, who now prioritise maintaining their employment over higher pay, new independent research by specialised recruiter Robert Half finds.

The majority (81%) of workers are concerned redundancies will occur at their company in 2025 and many more (94%) are already taking steps to increase their employability if they do need to find a new role.

Meanwhile, more than a third (37%) of workers are prioritising job security ahead of pay this year, as they recognise the tough economic conditions their employers are juggling and are uncertain as to whether they will find a better position at another company. It compares to 16% who prioritise salary over job security, and 47% who value both equally.

“It's evident that many workers are feeling a deep sense of uncertainty and concern about the possibility of redundancies in the coming year,” says Ronil Singh, Director at Robert Half. “The fact that job security now ranks higher than pay in worker priorities reflects a climate of market uncertainty and a growing emphasis on stability and long-term career prospects.”

How workers are tackling their concerns

The research reveals most workers are making sure they are prepared for a redundancy if and when it may occur, regardless of whether they are concerned about their job security this year. In fact, 94% are taking one or more steps to prepare for a potential redundancy. For some, that entails looking for another job to move into before a redundancy can occur. For others, their preparations involve being informed about their company’s plans and increasing their employability.

The measures workers are taking	Percentage of workers
Pursuing training or certifications to improve their marketability	47%
Passively looking for a new job	54%
Actively looking for a new job	26%
Asking their manager about potential redundancies and how their role may be impacted	26%
None of the above	8%

Independent survey commissioned by Robert Half among 500 full-time office workers in New Zealand.

“Workers are taking a proactive approach to their careers, anticipating potential employment changes by actively investing in their development. Rather than waiting for restructures to affect their roles, they are future-proofing their skills, embracing upskilling and networking. This shift toward intentional career management isn’t just about boosting income—it’s about building resilience and securing long-term opportunities in an evolving job market.

“If redundancies do eventuate, having this kind of positive and proactive attitude will stand workers in good stead to secure their next role,” concluded Singh.

RobertHalf_NZ_jobsecurity.pdf

Notes to editors

About the research

The study is developed by Robert Half and was conducted online in November 2024 by an independent research company among 500 full-time office workers in finance, accounting, and IT and technology. Respondents are drawn from a sample of SMEs as well as large private, publicly-listed and public sector organisations across New Zealand. This survey is part of the international workplace survey, a questionnaire about job trends, talent management and trends in the workplace.

About Robert Half

Robert Half is the global, specialised talent solutions provider that helps employers find their next great hire and jobseekers uncover their next opportunity. Robert Half offers both contract and permanent placement services, and is the parent company of Protiviti, a global consulting firm.  Robert Half New Zealand has an office in Aukland. More information on roberthalf.com/nz

For more information    

Courtney Fletcher

PR Manager

Courtney.Fletcher@roberthalf.com.au

+61 421 209 304