Offering more flexible working hours is just as likely to persuade workers stay as throwing money at them, according to a survey.
The poll of 250 employees found most would consider moving to a new job if their working week became more flexible.
Their average working week was a “burdensome” 49 hours, and three out of four said they would be prepared to sacrifice money for a better work-life balance.
Many were worried that long hours were damaging relationships with their partner.
“This survey reveals that the margin between the appeal of flexible working and more money is a lot narrower than many employers assume,” said Geraint Evans of consultancy Woodhurst, which carried out the study.
“The message is clear - offering your staff more flexibility in how they work, can be as effective a retention strategy as throwing money at the problem,” he added.