This article is based on a report from ESG Today, authored by Mark Segal, Founder of ESG Today.

A recent survey by Economist Impact highlights a growing emphasis on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors in job decisions, particularly among senior executives. According to the report, over 40% of senior executives prioritize ESG considerations when applying for jobs—far surpassing their junior counterparts. This trend signals an increasing role for sustainability in talent attraction and workplace decision-making.

Senior Executives Lead in ESG-Driven Career Choices

The report, “Transitioning to Sustainability: Employee Perspectives on Workplace Practices,” surveyed 630 employees across financial hubs including London, New York, Singapore, Sydney, and Tokyo. It found that 41% of senior executives consider an organization’s ESG reputation before applying for a role, compared to just 24% of junior employees. Additionally, 43% of senior executives would accept a pay cut to work for a sustainability-focused employer, while only 18% of junior employees shared the same sentiment.

Economist Impact suggests economic concerns, such as rising living costs and job security, may overshadow sustainability considerations for junior employees. However, both groups agree that sustainability will play an increasing role in talent attraction over the next few years.

Shared Sustainability Priorities Across All Levels

Despite differences in career decisions, senior and junior employees align on sustainability priorities within the workplace. Around 80% of both groups believe educating and training employees on sustainable practices is essential. Fostering employee well-being and promoting workplace diversity ranked as the second and third most important priorities, respectively.

Junior employees show a strong interest in developing sustainability-related skills, with 27% pursuing professional certifications and courses, 42% participating in internal working groups, and 39% engaging in volunteer sustainability initiatives.

Differences in Perceptions of Workplace Sustainability Challenges

The survey reveals differing views on barriers to workplace sustainability. While 27% of senior executives cite commercial trade-offs as the biggest challenge, 47% of junior employees point to inadequate leadership engagement. Both groups, however, agree that unclear sustainability roadmaps, vague performance metrics, and complex regulatory changes are major obstacles.

Additionally, junior employees express stronger concerns about social impact-related sustainability issues. Only 36% of junior employees are confident in their organizations’ ability to protect workers’ rights throughout supply chains, compared to 45% of senior executives. More junior employees (56.5%) advocate for stricter policies against harassment and discrimination than their senior counterparts (51.7%).

Shifting Sustainability Priorities and Workplace Initiatives

Currently, most sustainability initiatives focus on operational efficiencies, with 54% of employees reporting energy-efficient systems and 52% highlighting resource consumption reduction. However, only 26% report their organizations implementing sustainable supply chain solutions.

Looking ahead, sustainability-related innovation and brand reputation are expected to be key drivers over the next 3–5 years. Organizations are also incentivizing sustainability through learning opportunities (48%), eco-friendly commuting options (53%), and employee-led sustainability groups (36%). However, only 7% integrate sustainability goals into performance evaluations.

As ESG considerations continue to shape workplace trends, organizations must align sustainability efforts with employee expectations to attract and retain top talent.

For the full article, visit: ESG Today