20.11.2025

Three in four UK professionals more confident changing jobs than asking for pay rise

According to the new research from global talent solutions partner Robert Walters, three-quarters (74%) of UK professionals say they feel more confident applying for an entirely new role with a larger salary than negotiating for a pay rise at their current employer next year.

Findings from their 2026 Salary Survey reveal that a further 72% state how mounting concerns over tax implications will deter them from negotiating for a raise in 2026.

“The last few weeks have seen considerable back-and-forth within the government ahead of the budget announcement on 26 November. While recent reports indicate direct tax hikes are off the table, expectations remain that taxes may rise in more subtle ways.

“This ongoing uncertainty is fueling further caution for UK professionals planning pay negotiations in the new year. With many now feeling more confident in seeking out new job opportunities to meaningfully increase their post-tax earnings.” Chris Eldridge, CEO at Robert Walters UK&I states.

The thinktank Fabian Society recently estimated that the UK government could raise £12bn by extending the freeze on income tax thresholds, helping them plug the current shortfall of over £20bn. A decision which could result in fiscal drag as thresholds fail to rise with inflation, pushing earners into higher tax brackets regardless of whether real income increases.

Robert Walters’ Salary Survey found that across industries, less than half (46%) of white-collar professionals are expecting a pay rise in 2026. Meanwhile, 78% of professionals say they are open to pursuing new opportunities next year.

With many pay rises this year sitting around 0-5% of worker’s annual income*, it’s unsurprising that many professionals are not expecting or even less motivated to negotiate for a rise going into 2026, particularly if after-tax gains could feel so limited.

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