A recent survey conducted by Infostud at the Regional Employment Fair reveals that salary remains the most important factor for job seekers in Serbia, with 66% of respondents considering it the most decisive criterion. However, strong interpersonal relations at the workplace also play a crucial role, as 61% of respondents highlight this as a key factor when choosing an employer. Other important considerations include opportunities for career growth (37%), working hours (34%), job security (23%) and flexible working hours (22%).
The survey also reveals that a third of respondents believe that knowledge and skills are the most important for securing a job, followed by motivation (20%) and previous work experience (18%). Interestingly, only 3% of respondents see formal education as a crucial factor, suggesting a shift towards valuing practical experience and motivation.
In terms of salary expectations, 35% of respondents believe an ideal monthly salary falls between 800 and 1,000 EUR, while 28% expect between 1,000 and 1,500 EUR. Around 17% believe 500 to 800 EUR would be enough for a decent life, and only 13% expect salaries above 1,500 EUR.
The survey also indicates that over half of employees (54%) plan to change jobs within the next year. A majority (63%) of respondents report that their positions do not allow remote work, with just 6% working fully from home. Additionally, foreign companies remain the most preferred employer for 33% of respondents, followed by entrepreneurship (27%) and state-owned companies (21%).
Feedback after job applications is also a significant issue, with 46% of respondents rarely receiving feedback, and only 3% reporting always getting a response. Furthermore, young people are particularly optimistic about their job prospects, with 38% expecting to find work within three months of graduation, and 70% willing to gain experience through internships or part-time jobs.
Regarding mobility, 46% of respondents would not consider relocating for work, but 28% are open to moving to other European countries, with the primary motivation being higher pay, better living conditions, and improved working conditions. The survey, which included over 6,000 respondents from Serbia and other countries in the region, provides valuable insights into current labor market trends and preferences.
