Cleaning and janitorial companies, BSCs, property managers, and related companies are still struggling to bridge the labour gap that has plagued businesses in recent months. Demand is high, supply is low, and competition is stiff. And, while things such as time off, flexibility, and company culture are undoubtedly important factors in employee attraction and retention, money is still the main allure for workers.

A new survey from CareerBuilder has found that, amid a 40-year high in the Canadian inflation rate, employees prefer a pay raise over additional vacation.

The survey of U.S. adults conducted by The Harris Poll found that two-thirds (66 per cent) would prefer a 10 per cent pay increase over an additional week of paid time off. Among employed adults, 47 per cent said they most appreciate a good salary alongside job security.

The survey also revealed that nearly nine in 10 (89 per cent) of employed adults expect an annual pay increase from their company. Nearly half (46 per cent) look for a raise of at least five per cent and 16 per cent expect a yearly raise of 10 per cent or more each year.

In addition, half (49 per cent of) employees are confident that the rise in wages will keep up with inflation, with Gen Z (55 per cent) and millennials (62 per cent) more optimistic than Gen X (38 per cent) and baby boomers (20 per cent).

However, many workers – more than half, at 53 per cent – feel that working a single job is no longer enough to make ends meet. That includes 66 per cent of millennials, 57 per cent of men, and 49 per cent of women.

“In our most recent survey, the data shows that worker expectations are shifting right alongside inflation. Americans are looking for a larger than average annual pay raise at the same time we’re seeing an increase in the price of consumer goods and services,” said Susan Arthur, CEO of CareerBuilder. “Folks want to be able to earn a salary that matches the rising gas prices or hike in rent, for example.”