How satisfied are the nation’s sparkies? We learn more about the best/worst parts of the job, according to a recent Draper survey.
A new study from Draper Tools has revealed Britain’s electricians experience high levels of job satisfaction, with more than 80% feeling satisfied with their careers. The news comes as Draper launches its new XP1000 range of VDE hand tools, featuring 21 pliers and 55 screwdrivers, plus sets of both and tethered plier options too. The company worked closely with the trade over a two-year period to develop the range, taking time to understand the highs and the lows of the industry along the way.
What satisfies sparkies?
When it comes to the two top reasons why electricians enjoy their jobs, it all comes down to a love of problem-solving and the satisfaction that comes with using tools on a daily basis. More than a third of electricians feel like they’re providing a vital service, which contributes to their job satisfaction. A third also said they enjoyed travelling to different locations for work. And just over a quarter cited the money as one of the most satisfying aspects of the job. Commenting on the findings, Phil Rowley, Sales Director at Draper Tools, said: “As part of developing the XP1000 range, we spent a long time listening to the thoughts and feedback of the electrical trade. We worked closely with key figures in the industry to get our product offering right, but we also wanted to really get to know the sector and the people within it.
“We couldn’t help but be impressed with the passion and the pride electricians have for their work and this has certainly fed into the development of the range. It’s been a fascinating journey, getting to the heart of what matters to this vital sector.”
The tools for success
Other reasons electricians love what they do included getting good feedback from customers, regularly interacting with a variety of people and how every day is different. A quarter cited the banter with other trades as one of the things they enjoy about the role. Tools of the trade are all part of the appeal too – a quarter of electricians said they get a sense of satisfaction from adding to their tool collection. And around 1 in 6 even admitted they get enjoyment from simply sitting back and admiring their tools. Phil continued: “Of course, having quality tools is essential to doing a good job when you’re dealing with electrics. But we were bowled over by the amount of love and pride people have for their tool collections. “We hope our XP1000 range will go on to earn its place in the hearts of the nation’s electricians. The entire collection has certainly been a big investment for us, but we’re confident there is a lot to love about it. It’s reliable, comfortable, safe and comes with our Draper Expert Lifetime Warranty too.” The recently launched Draper XP1000 range is tested to 10,000 V, suitable for use on live AC circuits up to 1,000 V and DC circuits up to 1,500 V, and fully compliant to EN60900 standards. It’s already getting great feedback from early testers of the range, with over 85% of them saying they’d recommend it.
Short fuse: the downsides of the job
While there’s no doubting the love electricians have for their work, there are a few downsides. The biggest complaints were about rude customers and bosses. And more than a third of electricians get frustrated when those around them don’t understand the basics of how electrics work. While some like the banter, 29% said dealing with other trades was one of the worst things about the job. Just over one in six cited poor workmanship by other trades as making their jobs worse. Not being offered a hot drink on the job was also a common complaint from more than a quarter of respondents. There are some more serious concerns too: a small number of electricians worry about the daily risks associated with the job.
To see the full study findings and browse the Draper XP1000 Range, click here
