A recent study by Amrop uncovers significant differences in work ethic, ambition, and leadership aspirations between professionals in Western countries and their peers in the Global South. The findings highlight challenges and opportunities for organizations and economies globally.
Key Findings from the Study:
1. Work Enjoyment and Career Importance:
- Global South:
- 92% of Indians and 87% of Brazilians enjoy working.
- 84% of Indians consider a successful career essential for a good life, with China (71%) and Brazil (70%) following closely.
- Western Countries:
- Enjoyment of work is lower: Germany (71%), the US (69%), and the UK (68%).
- Career importance is valued by fewer respondents: Germany (43%), France (40%), and Poland (37%).
2. Work Ethic and Work-Life Balance:
- Global South:
- India (75%) leads in valuing hard work, followed by China (63%) and Brazil (55%).
- 73% of Indian professionals and 59% of Chinese professionals report a healthy work-life balance.
- Western Countries:
- Hard work is less emphasized: US (70%), UK (55%), France (35%).
- Fewer report a healthy work-life balance: Germany (49%) and France (45%).
3. Willingness to Work Longer Hours:
- Global South:
- 46% in China and 42% in India are willing to work over 40 hours weekly.
- Western Countries:
- Lower willingness to work longer hours: UK (29%), Germany (27%), France (16%).
4. Leadership Ambition:
- Global South:
- High aspirations for leadership: India (76%), Brazil (66%), and China (54%).
- Western Countries:
- Lower aspirations: UK (52%), US (49%), France (37%), and Germany (36%).
- Leadership in politics is the least desired career globally, with financial stability and lifestyle as the top motivations.
Challenges Highlighted by the Study:
- Western nations face aging societies and a scarcity of ambitious professionals, impacting economic growth and leadership development.
- Despite fewer working hours, Western professionals report lower work-life balance, necessitating further studies to identify root causes and solutions.
The Amrop study underscores a crucial gap in ambition and leadership aspirations between the Global South and Western countries. To sustain economic growth and societal progress, stakeholders must foster entrepreneurship, leadership interest, and a renewed passion for work across regions.
