According to a recent survey published by CareerBuilder, 58% of Canadian workers interviewed feel that they have a job without a real career plan. The survey also showed that 57% of them are satisfied with their present job, mainly due to the presence of their co-workers!
CareerBuilder questioned 426 full time employees in the private sector. According to the results, 3 employees out of 5 consider that they “just have a job" and not a career plan. Professional development is a concern for the great majority of workers (88%). However, 18% of respondents say that they are not satisfied with their work situation, compared to 15% last year.
Main cause of dissatisfaction: the lack of personal fulfilment
Leading the responses most frequently cited by those who show their discontent is the feeling of being considered nothing more than a number (61%). Following next is salary (56%), not liking the boss (43%), feeling unable to make a difference at work (33%), not being able to benefit from training or learning opportunities (31%), poor balance between private and professional life (27%) and not being sufficiently stimulated from day to day (26%). On the other hand, those who say they are satisfied emphasize the presence of their co-workers (80%), benefits related to their job (62%), a good balance between private and professional life (58%), liking their boss (54%), feeling valued (48%) and their salary (42%).
Reducing the risks of leaving for another company…
According to the survey, close to one quarter of employees say they want to change jobs this year, compared to 17% in 2013. Mark Bania, career adviser at CareerBuilder, believes it is time for employers to review their hiring strategies and make adjustments. This is so their best talent doesn't jump ship along the way. Regular recognition of the employee, bonuses related to merit, training programs and clearly defined career prospects are among critical means to demonstrate to workers how much they really mean to the company.
… By raising salaries
According to the survey, retaining employees includes raising salaries in 74% of cases, better recognition: rewards, business travel (56%), increasing benefits (55%), surveying staff on changes they would like to see and acting on their wishes (52%), providing more flexible working hours (51%), increasing opportunities for training and learning (40%) and finally getting special benefits such as free lunches, a concierge service or a game room (32%). As Mark Bania emphasizes, new job offers are constantly posted across Canada and put forward many tempting offers urging workers to go elsewhere. It should give business leaders food for thought!