http://www.djsresearch.co.ukMarket Research RSS FeedsWed, 20 Aug 2025 22:30:47 BST Six in 10 accountants approach problem solving creatively: A survey of accountants conducted on behalf of software company, Dext, has revealed that 61% consider themselves lateral thinkers, meaning they approach problem solving in a creative way, compared with 36% who consider themselves convergent thinkers. The latter occurs when the solution to a problem can be deduced by applying established rules and logical reasoning. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Six-in-10-accountants-approach-problem-solving-creatively-finds-survey-05303 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Six-in-10-accountants-approach-problem-solving-creatively-finds-survey-05303 Accounting and professional services sectors see largest rise in graduate recruitment: A survey has revealed that graduate recruitment has seen an increase of 14.5% and is up 10% on pre-pandemic levels with the accounting and professional services sectors seeing the largest rise. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Accounting-and-professional-services-sectors-see-largest-rise-in-graduate-recruitment-finds-survey-05395 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Accounting-and-professional-services-sectors-see-largest-rise-in-graduate-recruitment-finds-survey-05395 84% of conveyancers said they would not enter the profession today: A survey of conveyancers has found that more than 4 in 5 (84%) would not go into the profession if they were looking to embark on a career today, with 79% citing the Building Safety Act 2022 as the top reason. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/84percent-of-conveyancers-said-they-would-not-enter-the-profession-today-according-to-poll-05470 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/84percent-of-conveyancers-said-they-would-not-enter-the-profession-today-according-to-poll-05470 6 in 10 lawyers said they feel 'less optimistic' about their law careers following having children: A survey of lawyers has found that there are many who feel less optimistic about their career in law following having children, with women more likely to feel this way than men (52% versus 17%). http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/6-in-10-lawyers-said-they-feel-less-optimistic-about-their-law-careers-following-having-children-finds-survey-05504 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/6-in-10-lawyers-said-they-feel-less-optimistic-about-their-law-careers-following-having-children-finds-survey-05504 88% of UK employees would support a four-day working week: A recent survey has uncovered that almost nine in 10 British employees think moving towards a four-day working week would benefit them, with 76% of SME employers and 86% of recruiters in agreement. The research by NatWest Rapid Cash surveyed 500 recruitment agencies, 500 SME employers and 2,000 office workers in May 2022, finding that while most recruiters support the idea of a four-day week, a third were of the opinion that extra costs would be incurred as a result. When asked about other ways they feel their working life would be improved, a third of employees (31%) said a more flexible work pattern would be more beneficial. Increasing productivity is one of the main reasons cited in favour of changing the standard working week from five to four days; however, just three in 10 managers believe that productivity would actually be improved. However, around two-thirds (68%) said they believe that moving to a shorter working week would increase productivity. Recruiters also cited a number of other reasons for switching to a four-day week, with 87% believing it would improve mental health and three-quarters (76%) stating that it would result in significant improvement to a person's standard of living. In addition, the monetary benefit would help the British economy (70%), they said. When SME employers were asked about the potential benefits of a four-day working week, almost half (47%) said it would improve employee retention. However, 45% were concerned that reducing the hours would lead to less work being done, with a further 46% feeling some of the work would be left incomplete. On Monday 6 June 2022, more than 3,300 workers at 70 businesses in the UK started working a four-day week with no loss of pay on a trial basis. Natalie Kerr, chief commercial director for NatWest Rapid Cash, said: 'Recruiters clearly see the four-day working week and personal wellbeing gaining popularity among employees. But many businesses are reluctant to provide a better work-life balance due to increased operational costs. Cashflow is key when it comes not only to staffing but also to having the flexibility to adopt new models of working, and to make the most of growth opportunities.' http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/88percent-of-UK-employees-would-support-a-four-day-working-week-reveals-survey-05182 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/88percent-of-UK-employees-would-support-a-four-day-working-week-reveals-survey-05182 46% of Human Resource professionals frequently have dreams filled with stress and anxiety: A survey into the impact that a persons' profession has on their sleep has uncovered that human resource professionals have more work-related dreams than any other profession; with 46% saying they frequently have stressful or anxiety-filled dreams. The study by Neville Johnson polled over 2,200 UK professionals, and also looked at what the most commonly reoccurring events were in these dreams, with excessive workload being the most common. In addition, participants reported having dreams where they were underqualified in their role, with those in legal roles most likely to have dreams about imposter syndrome. Although HR professionals were found to have the most work-related dreams, four in 10 media, marketing and sales workers also had the same experience, along with education (37%), finance (35%) and healthcare professionals (30%) -- the top five professions for stressful, work-related dreams. The survey, also, looked at similarities and disparities between the amount of pay individuals receive and the content of their dreams, finding that participants with higher incomes were more likely to have dreams about being overworked. When looking at which UK city dreams about work the most, the study found that Belfast ranks top in this category, with Plymouth and Nottingham in second and third. Furthermore, Edinburgh ranked as the highest city in Scotland, but was ranked fourth in the whole of the UK. A sleep expert analyst from Neville Johnson, said: "Dreaming about being late to work means that you are likely stressing over a potentially missed opportunity. If you are experiencing these dreams, try to set yourself goals in and out of the workplace, or speak to your boss about potential opportunities to grow." http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/46percent-of-Human-Resource-professionals-frequently-have-dreams-filled-with-stress-or-anxiety-reveals-survey-05216 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/46percent-of-Human-Resource-professionals-frequently-have-dreams-filled-with-stress-or-anxiety-reveals-survey-05216 Over two in five accountants state they 'never' or 'rarely' have optimism for the future: A recent survey by ACA students from the accountant wellbeing charity CABA has found that 21% of UK accountants are 'never' or 'rarely' optimistic about the future of their career. However, a quarter of those polled said they didn't feel able to speak about their stresses or worries. The poll questioned over 1,000 UK accountants in June and July 2021 in preparation for National Stress Awareness Day at the start of November. The survey aimed to uncover how accountants really feel and attempted to give advice for the most common challenges that were revealed. When asked about how their mental health may have affected their work, just over four in 10 said they felt as if they were unable to work effectively because of low energy. Furthermore, three in 10 stated they felt isolated when trying to deal with their challenges. In addition, over 56% said they felt challenged emotionally in the year leading up to the study taking place. The study also aimed to uncover why the accountants might have been feeling the way they did, with a third saying their career, work or studies are the reason for feeling more stressed. Furthermore, 18% stated the impact of the pandemic on their work and life as a key factor, with 14% saying they constantly felt under pressure. Paul Day, support officer for CABA, said: 'Some individuals may be put off from seeking help due to the perception of stigma, time barriers or simply not knowing where to look or how to find help. Whatever it is you're struggling with, though, it's vital you get some kind of support.' http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Over-two-in-five-accountants-state-they-never-or-rarely-have-optimism-for-the-future-reveals-survey-04992 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Over-two-in-five-accountants-state-they-never-or-rarely-have-optimism-for-the-future-reveals-survey-04992 Job vacancies estimated at nearly one million for the first time since records began in 2001: A recent survey by the Office for National Statistics has revealed the number of job vacancies has been estimated to be at just under one million in June 2021. The estimated number of vacancies (953,000) is the highest estimated since records began in 2001. It was also found that the Arts, Leisure and Food industry have created the most vacancies in the last few months, with most venues and companies fully reopening. In addition, analysts predicted the rate of unemployment would stay at just under 5% for the quarter, however, the figure slightly increased. Despite the number of job vacancies increasing, the number of people on furlough has decreased to the lowest amount since the scheme was first introduced. Furthermore, the number of people with jobs increased in June and July by 182,000, and has grown by almost 500,000 in the few months prior. However, it is still estimated that the number of employed UK adults is 201,000; lower than before the pandemic started. The study also found that wages grew from April to June in 2021 by 7% without bonuses and 9% including bonuses. The number of young and old people in work has also increased with the rate of employment up to 75% for the age categories, according to the findings. Mims Davies, the Minister for Employment, said: 'There are positive signs of recovery in today's jobs figures [but] there is still work to do and we're focused on helping employers fill roles through our Plan for Jobs ' giving people of all ages the skills, support and experience needed to confidently land that next opportunity.' http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Job-vacancies-estimated-at-nearly-one-million-for-the-first-time-since-records-began-in-2001-reveals-survey-04931 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Job-vacancies-estimated-at-nearly-one-million-for-the-first-time-since-records-began-in-2001-reveals-survey-04931 Work-life balance more important than wages when it comes to making a career change: A survey of workers has found that when it comes to considering a change of career, finding the right work-life balance is of paramount importance. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Work-life-balance-more-important-than-wages-when-it-comes-to-making-a-career-change-finds-poll-04920 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Work-life-balance-more-important-than-wages-when-it-comes-to-making-a-career-change-finds-poll-04920 Use of Online Legal Services More Than Doubled Since 2012 to 44%:A survey has revealed that the use of legal services has more than doubled since 2012, climbing to 44%. The Legal Services Consumer Panel tracker survey observed 3,500 people, also finding that since the start of the pandemic, 54% of consumers have accessed online services at least once. When choosing which lawyer would be right for them, the survey revealed there is a variety of opinions about what is best to look for. One in five said the lawyer's reputation is a key factor, up from 73% in 2012, however, only three in 10 said they would shop around before selecting their lawyer, with 74% of the opinion that they had a wide range of professionals to pick from. Although there are many different ways for someone to pick the best lawyer for them, many people are choosing correctly the survey suggests, as overall customer satisfaction of legal services used has increased from 79%, in 2012, to 83% in the latest polling in addition, satisfaction with the outcome has also increased since 2012, from 84% to 89%. Just 9% of respondents said they would describe legal services they have received as poor value for money; however, the results depend heavily on the nature of their situation, or case. For example, people dealing with more personal matters such as their family or injury claims, are less likely to be satisfied with the outcome than people with commoditised matters. The survey also uncovered that 61% of respondents found out about prices through discussions with their lawyers; 8% through their provider's website and 2% through other comparison websites. Furthermore, just 6% stated they found it difficult to understand the price based off the information they were given, with 77% saying they understood the prices. Sarah Chamber, chair of the Legal Services Consumer Panel, said: "While shopping around has increased over the last ten years, past experience or personal recommendations have remained the most popular ways to choose service providers, highlighting the importance of providing every client with a high-quality service." http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Use-of-online-legal-services-more-than-doubled-since-2012-to-44percent-reveals-survey-04926 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Use-of-online-legal-services-more-than-doubled-since-2012-to-44percent-reveals-survey-04926 Job security is most important when considering staying with an employer: A survey of UK workers has found that the most important thing for employees when considering staying with their current employer is how secure their role is - ranking higher than both flexibility and pay. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Job-security-is-most-important-when-considering-staying-with-an-employer-finds-survey-04831 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Job-security-is-most-important-when-considering-staying-with-an-employer-finds-survey-04831 44% of UK workers are worried their job is not secure due to Covid-19: Research looking at the effects of Covid-19 on the labour market has found 44% of workers are worried that their role is under threat, with more than a third (37%) feeling 'insecure' about their position. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/44percent-of-UK-workers-are-worried-their-job-is-not-secure-due-to-Covid-19-reveals-survey-04717 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/44percent-of-UK-workers-are-worried-their-job-is-not-secure-due-to-Covid-19-reveals-survey-04717 Accountants rated most approachable service provider for SMEs during COVID-19 lockdown: A survey of small business owners has found that of all the service providers used during lockdown, accountants have been the most supportive to SMEs. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Accountants-rated-most-approachable-service-provider-for-SMEs-during-COVID-19-lockdown-survey-finds-04676 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Accountants-rated-most-approachable-service-provider-for-SMEs-during-COVID-19-lockdown-survey-finds-04676 Survey of lawyers reveals shift in attitude when it comes to working from home: A survey of lawyers and law firm staff has revealed a change in the number of professionals who would like to work at home permanently once the coronavirus pandemic is over. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Survey-of-lawyers-reveals-shift-in-attitude-when-it-comes-to-working-from-home-04651 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Survey-of-lawyers-reveals-shift-in-attitude-when-it-comes-to-working-from-home-04651 One in four employers expect to make permanent redundancies due to COVID-19: A survey of HR professionals has revealed insight into the way employers are responding to the coronavirus crisis, finding that while many are looking to furlough staff, a quarter fear they will have to make permanent redundancies. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/One-in-four-employers-expect-to-make-permanent-redundancies-due-to-COVID-19-reveals-poll-04586 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/One-in-four-employers-expect-to-make-permanent-redundancies-due-to-COVID-19-reveals-poll-04586 Fifth of architects say their entire office is working from home due to coronavirus: A survey of architects has revealed that a fifth (21%) saw their entire office setting up operations from home, following Boris Johnson's 16 March address to the nation. The Prime Minister said that all those who could work from home, should do, in order to curb the spread of coronavirus. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Fifth-of-architects-say-their-entire-office-is-working-from-home-due-to-coronavirus-according-to-survey-04569 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Fifth-of-architects-say-their-entire-office-is-working-from-home-due-to-coronavirus-according-to-survey-04569 Six in 10 adults in England and Wales have experienced a legal issue in last four years: A survey has found that in the past four years, six out of 10 adults in England and Wales have experienced a legal issue http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Six-in-10-adults-in-England-and-Wales-have-experienced-a-legal-issue-in-last-four-years-reveals-poll-04550 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Six-in-10-adults-in-England-and-Wales-have-experienced-a-legal-issue-in-last-four-years-reveals-poll-04550 SMEs hire accountants more than any other professional adviser: A survey has revealed that of all the professional advisers SMEs hire to assist their business, accountants are the most popular, with two thirds of respondents (66 per cent) saying they had hired one for their organisation. The survey also found that SMEs within the financial sector were the most likely to call in support from experts. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/SMEs-hire-accountants-more-than-any-other-professional-adviser-according-to-poll-04488 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/SMEs-hire-accountants-more-than-any-other-professional-adviser-according-to-poll-04488 Nearly half UK lawyers using tech that does not meet their needs: A survey of UK and US lawyers for Intapp has revealed 46% of those polled in the UK are using technology that falls short when it comes to meeting their business needs. The survey also found that 28% of UK lawyers say the technology they use creates more work for them and is far too complex than is necessary. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Nearly-half-UK-lawyers-are-using-tech-that-does-not-meet-their-needs-finds-survey-04386 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Nearly-half-UK-lawyers-are-using-tech-that-does-not-meet-their-needs-finds-survey-04386 Decline in accounting and professional services work experience opportunities: Work experience places in the accounting and professional services industries have seen a decline this year of 3.9%. from 2017 figures. http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Decline-in-accounting-and-professional-services-work-experience-opportunities-survey-shows-04210 http://www.djsresearch.co.uk/blog/article/Decline-in-accounting-and-professional-services-work-experience-opportunities-survey-shows-04210