In the UK, approximately 34 million people over the age of 16 are employed, but which are the happiest industries to work in and how are employees supported in their jobs?
Adobe Express has conducted an extensive study, to find out the pros and cons of each industry, and how Brits are pursuing their dream roles and a happy work life.
More than a third (36%) of people in the UK are currently in their dream role, and 68% feel fulfilled about their job. However, there are many still seeking the perfect career, with 14% claiming they aren’t fulfilled by their work and 28% even saying they would leave their position within the next 12 months if a new opportunity arose.
In terms of age ranges, 50% of 18–24-year-olds feel that they are already in their dream roles, compared to 11% of 45-54-year-olds and 7% of 55-64-year-olds. The most fulfilled age range is 35-44 year-olds, with 19% claiming they are extremely fulfilled with their current work, 17% of 45-54-year-olds admit they are only slightly fulfilled.
At any workplace, a supporting company or employer can make a real difference to a positive and progressive outlook. In fact, 34% say work perks and benefits keep people motivated, whilst flexible working arrangements are the key to a good work-life balance for 28%. 21% say that their workplace supports their staff with new innovative tools and ways of working such as AI.
Glasgow revealed as one of the most fulfilled UK cities to work in
Glasgow stands out as one of the most fulfilled cities to work in across the UK. According to the survey data, 43% of Glaswegians say they feel extremely fulfilled in their current roles which is the highest level of work satisfaction reported in any city surveyed. This suggests that while other cities might have more people in so-called “dream roles,” Glasgow offers a deeper sense of purpose and contentment in day-to-day work.
In comparison, Manchester leads in the number of people actually working in their dream jobs (46%), and Belfast is notable for its strong workplace support, with 40% feeling backed by tools like AI. On the other end of the scale, cities like Edinburgh and Bristol are struggling Edinburgh has the lowest number of people in dream roles (33%) and 29% say they lack the resources to find one, while just 10% of Bristolians feel fulfilled at work.
Glasgow’s high fulfilment rate highlights it as a city where people might not just be chasing a dream role however, they’re genuinely enjoying the one they have.
The happiest industries to work in
Adobe’s study reveals the industries that has the most people in their dream roles, as well as the best support:
- The industry with the highest percentage of people working their dream roles is Information Technology (59%), followed by Business Consulting and Management (54%), Engineering and Manufacturing (54%) and Property and Construction (54%)
- The industries with employees still searching for their dream roles are Media and internet (60%), Recruitment and HR (50%) and Public services and administration (38%).
- 29% of people working in Marketing, Advertising and PR are likely to switch roles in the next 12 months for the right opportunity, the highest out of all industries.
- A third of workers (33%) in Science and Pharmaceuticals and Law Enforcement and Security say they are extremely fulfilled by their work, the highest percentage out of all industries
- 43% of people working in Marketing, advertising and PR feel supported by new innovative tools such as AI
- 59% in business, consulting and management feel supported by their work perks and benefits
- 40% of workers in Media and Internet said further support would help them achieve their career ambitions.
Adobe Express has provided tips to people in the UK support when finding their dream role:
Clearly define your goals: The first step should involve identifying your interests, skills, and values. What kind of work makes you feel the most fulfilled? And is there anything currently stopping you from making the switch to your dream career? Understanding key factors like this will help give you direction and narrow your search.
Refine your CV: Whether you’re applying for a role in a familiar field or looking to break into a new industry, it’s wise to give your CV a refresh before sending it to potential employers.Make sure it clearly highlights your experience, emphasising your unique skills as an employee.
Tailor every application: No matter the industry, it’s important to tailor your application to the specific role you’re applying for. Make sure to showcase your passion for the position, detailing how your skills align with their unique needs.
Get interview-ready: Preparation is key when it comes to interviews, so make sure you’ve researched the company’s mission as well as any recent industry developments.
Stay flexible and persistent: Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, you’ll need to stay persistent in the pursuit of your dream career.Finding the right opportunity can take time, so don’t let setbacks derail you.Commit to learning and adapting your approach as you go.
For further inspiration on how to make a dream role a reality, head to Adobe Express’ blog page The Happiest Industries in the UK | Adobe Express where there are resources on CVs, cover letters, digital portfolios and more.
