Major career shake-up as 59 per cent of Aussies ready to quit

A huge number of Australians are feeling confident enough to quit their job for something better, with bosses now expected to meet one key demand.

New Australian jobs data suggests 2023 is the year of a career change.

Despite a 19 per cent year-on-year drop in hiring, Australian workers are increasingly confident about pulling the pin on their current job for something better.

A study carried out by LinkedIn canvased over 1000 Aussie workers over 18, and what it found was startling.

Just under three in five (59 per cent) workers are considering a switch from their current job in 2023, with over half saying they feel confident they’ll find something better.

This appetite for a career change is driven by employees’ confidence in their abilities at work, signalling an end of impostor syndrome.

Three-in-five Aussie workers are ready to quit in 2023. Picture: Jonathan Ng

While 60 per cent of those surveyed say they are happy in their current role, Aussie workers have no qualms about angling for something new, with the top reasons for jumping being more money (40 per cent) and better work-life balance (31 per cent).

“That’s quite a high level of people thinking about taking on a new job this year. And what’s interesting is confidence is up,” Cayla Dengate told news.com.au.

“It’s that nice sense that coming out of the pandemic, people have been really banking up that sense of confidence.

“There’s a real sense among job seekers that it’s going to be a good year. There’s a confidence that they’re going to be able to get that job they want.

“It’s great to hear that we’ve got a competent workforce right now.”

Staff are overworked and undervalued

A tricky economic climate is taking a toll, and the data reveals that some employees are burdened with additional work.

Over a quarter say economic uncertainty has them working longer hours and taking on more responsibility at work, while two-thirds feel “overworked and undervalued”, which is impacting their commitment and loyalty to their current jobs.

“Many are still looking for a job that works for them, with a wage that matches their value and a role that offers work-life balance and flexibility,” Ms Dengate said.

Cayla Dengate from LinkedIn.

Just over two-thirds (67 per cent) of Aussie professionals say their employer isn’t invested in them. Given that, it would come as no surprise that three-in-five feel their days are numbered in their current role.

Employers take note

As the data suggests a career migration, employers might be wondering how they can keep their staff happy.

LinkedIn’s research says the top way to retain staff was a four-day work week, with over 35 per cent mentioning it would be an aspect of workplace culture that would inspire them to stay.

“Job seekers are being intentional in their search and are taking steps to recession-proof their

current roles by learning new skills or brushing up on existing ones,” Ms Dengate said.

Jobs data shows Aussie workers feel overworked and undervalued.

“While no one can predict how things might change, for those looking to make a change in 2023, look at how your skill set may be applied to other roles, as this could open up additional opportunities and roles.”

The data shows employees are positive and are not deterred by the tough labour market, believing opportunities still exist, with over half of Aussies optimistic and confident they can

secure a new role, while just over 21 per cent feel confident in their abilities to find a better

position than what they currently have.

As for those who have already left – more than half 54 per cent of workers claim they did so due to a “bad boss”.

Bosses ‘kept up at night’ over good workers

Good talent is more valuable than ever as employers around the country offer incredible perks to keep good staff on the payroll and lure in new star workers.

Rent, food, getaways, free gym memberships and generous remuneration are some ways Australian companies incentivise talent to stay with them.

According to an industry survey by KPMG, attracting and retaining talent will be the most significant issue worrying senior Australian executives in 2023, with 77 per cent of industry leaders ranking it above other concerns like cyber risks, digital transformation, regulation and flexible workplaces.

Keeping and attracting good talent is worrying Australian bosses. Picture: Damian Shaw/NCA NewsWire

The firm found the majority of leaders – 61 per cent – expect talent acquisition and retention will ‘keep them up at night’ for the next five years. Some employers have seen the writing on the wall and have made incredible steps to keep their valuable staff.

“An employer that wants to hang on to talent really needs to be invested in their workforce,” Ms Dengate said.

“They need to be playing an active role in helping them gain skills, reach professional goals and feel comfortable about their place in the workforce.”

LinkedIn is hosting live workshops online from January 30 to February 2, offering practical career advice and jobseeking tips.