A recent study conducted by RMIT Online, which sought to understand the motivations of Australia’s workforce, reveals that a quarter of young workers (those under the age of 30) have considered switching careers within the past three months.
The pursuit of an increased salary is the primary driver for this desire for a career shift according to the study, with 50 per cent of workers under the age of 30 placing it at the forefront of their motivations. Career development opportunities and flexible working, follow at 33 and 31 per cent respectively.
For young workers who report feeling dissatisfied with their current job, not feeling valued was cited as the top reason at 60 per cent. This was closely followed by not having an adequate salary for their role or level of responsibility, and not having clarity about career progression, both at 55 per cent.
“As the workforce continues to evolve, it’s clear Gen Z and younger millennials are redefining their priorities and as such, their career paths,” Nic Cola, CEO at RMIT Online, said of the research findings. “They are in pursuit of new opportunities, and they are not afraid to change jobs to do so. This generation makes up a significant chunk of the workforce, so it’s crucial we empower them to bridge the skills gap and chase their professional ambitions. Doing so would contribute to a more resilient and dynamic workforce of the future.”
The report also highlights the fact that 56 per cent of the younger respondents plan to ask their employer for external training or upskilling in the coming months. It noted that training is viewed as particularly important for young workers, as 30 per cent have expressed concern that they do not have the skills to perform in their current role.
“It’s no surprise remuneration is a primary motivator in today’s economic climate, however, career development and training opportunities are also primary motivators for most Australians,” Cole said. “If businesses don’t properly support, value or engage their employees, they risk losing valuable staff, stifling their own innovation and lagging behind in today’s ever-competitive landscape.”
