The job market in the U.S. is witnessing a transformative shift, with more than half of job seekers open to switching industries (56%) or functions (52%). A recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey highlights this growing trend of career mobility, underscoring the importance of adaptability and strategic workforce planning for organizations.
- Career Switching Trends
- 58% of job seekers have switched careers at least once, with 76% believing it’s never too late to make a change.
- Only 14% have never switched careers and do not intend to do so.
- Generational dynamics:
- Gen Z and Millennials: More inclined to switch functions (66% and 58%).
- Gen X and Boomers: Have changed careers more frequently (39% and 44%).
- Popular Career Choices
- Industries attracting job seekers if barriers like time, money, or qualifications are removed:
- Health care and social assistance (11%)
- Professional, scientific, and technical services (8%)
- Finance and insurance (8%)
- Arts, entertainment, and recreation (8%)
- Education (8%)
- Industries attracting job seekers if barriers like time, money, or qualifications are removed:
- Motivations for Career Switching
- Desire for more flexibility (51%)
- Lack of advancement or fulfillment (46%)
- Inadequate compensation (31%)
- Skills better suited for another career (28%)
- Desire for more time off (27%)
- Seeking a positive work culture (26%)
- Transferring skills to faster-growing industries (22%)
Challenges Faced by Career Switchers
- Key barriers to switching careers include:
- Starting over in a new field (38%)
- Accepting a lower salary due to lack of experience (27%)
- Limited job opportunities in the desired field (25%)
- Having to take a lower-level position (25%)
- Being too invested in their current career (23%)
- Economic factors influencing decisions:
- 67% of job seekers are less likely to switch careers due to limited job opportunities.
- 75% of hiring managers believe the scarcity of job opportunities discourages career switches.
- Hiring Manager Observations
- 22% have seen an increase in career switching over the past three years, while 67% report stability in this trend.
- Creating Adaptable Workplaces
- Organizations need to foster environments that prioritize:
- Adaptability and continuous learning.
- Opportunities for career growth and skill development.
- Flexible work settings to attract and retain talent.
- As Bill Stoller, CEO of Express Employment International, stated:
- “In an era where career paths are increasingly non-linear, cultivating a workplace that values growth and adaptability is essential for attracting top talent and ensuring long-term success.”
- Organizations need to foster environments that prioritize:
Career switching is increasingly common, driven by the pursuit of flexibility, growth, and fulfillment. Organizations that embrace adaptability and foster supportive environments are better positioned to attract and retain top talent in today’s dynamic job market.