Yahoo/Hotjobs.com* surveyed 1,271 employees on their job seeking behaviors and found that 42% of employees would like to have a new job, but aren't actively looking. Why not? The reasons were varied:
- 36% felt that proving themselves to a new employer would be too hard
- 27% were procrastinating
- 27% were happy with their current work-life balance
- 26% didn't want to let down their current boss
- 26% had a short and easy commute with their current job
(note - respondents could select more than one reason for not looking for a new job)
What to make of data like this? As an HR Consultant who does a lot of staffing strategy work, should I be relieved to know that nearly half the workforce is willing to move if we proactively go after them with a good offer? Or should I should just discount this "data" since the respondents are folks who send confusing signals...i.e., they are surfing job boards and completing surveys, but they aren't willing to actually make a move.
Here's how I read it. While the average employee generally likes the idea of a fresh opportunity, he decides what a "good job" is on a variety of human factors that include more than upward movement and more money. Lifestyle elements such as a short commute that keeps him close to home and family, and commitment to a boss that has perhaps been encouraging and supportive matter to the average employee.
Personally, I'm glad a solid percentage in the workforce cannot be bought for a few more dollars or a glamorous title. Even if the ongoing "talent war" makes the HR role more stressful, it's these features that keep our workforce a more connected and humane place to be.
(* as reported in the 1/31/07 Money Section of USA Today)
Ma'am, May I request you for your email address? I wish to to request you for permission to reprint some content from your blog.
Posted by: Aditi | February 08, 2008 at 06:19 AM
Aditi -
I am always happy to see the gospel of Career Encouragement spread. Please feel free to reprint my blog content as long as you cite me as the author and my blog address at the bottom of each page.
Thanks!
The Career Encourager
Peggy Andrews, MA, SPHR
Posted by: The Career Encourager | February 10, 2008 at 05:18 PM