The good, the bad and the ugly of working in a desk job

Earning a higher salary appears to be one of the greatest advantages of being bound to a desk job.

According to a new study by Careerbuilder, those working in desk jobs were found to be twice as likely to earn six figures annually, while those working in non-desk jobs were twice as likely to earn less than $35,000 (S$43,829).

More than 70% of workers in desk jobs said they currently earn or are close to earning their desired salary, compared with 61% of workers who don't work behind a desk.

The study, which polled 2,095 American workers with desk jobs and 1,102 employees with non-desk occupations, also found workers in non-desk jobs had a somewhat higher tendency toward burnout (61% and 57%).

However, 38% of workers in non-desk jobs highlighted no complaints about their work environment compared to 14% of workers in desk jobs.

"Everyone has a different definition of the ideal work experience," Rosemary Haefner, vice president, human resources, CareerBuilder, said.

"For some, it's being in the thick of the action in the office. For others, it's the flexibility of not working behind a desk. There are advantages and disadvantages to both scenarios. With any job, it's important to find a work environment that is suited to your work style and interests and where you can thrive."

However, and perhaps unsurprisingly, a greater number of workers in desk jobs reported being overweight, according to the study.

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Close to six out of 10 (68%) of workers in desk jobs categorised themselves as overweight compared to 51% of workers in non-desk jobs.

A higher number of workers in desk jobs also gained weight in their current position compared to workers in non-desk jobs (46% vs. 30%).

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