Two out of every three UK workers whose employers do not contribute to their skills training are unmotivated and have little desire to progress, according to a report.

An independent survey commissioned by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) questioned a UK cross-section of over 1,000 individuals to ascertain how much impact training has on staff from a motivational and attitudinal point of view.

The results revealed that 68% considered themselves to be in a job and not a career, and over half claimed they were, at most, only motivated occasionally. In addition, nearly a quarter stated that they work to a level that ‘gets them by’ and a further 7% admitted they are not motivated whatsoever.

In contrast, 64% of those who received significant training (in-house or by an external organisation) funded at least in part by their employer, said that they were mostly either ‘motivated’ or ‘exceptionally motivated’.

“The key finding of our research was the difference that training made in terms of whether an individual saw themselves in a career or just a job,” said Jane Scott Paul, chief executive of AAT.

“In terms of motivation, and long term loyalty to a business, training is key. After all, it stands to reason that if your employer is willing to invest time and money in your personal development this will create a far more reciprocal relationship,” she said.