New Year, New Job?

38% aim to find another job in their country whilst 14% plan to seek a new job abroad

London, 28th January 2004 - The first few months of the year is when we put most of our efforts into fulfilling our new year’s resolutions and for many, job and career path are at the top of the list. Traditionally people start updating their CVs, pushing for that promotion, or even pluck up the courage to change their career or move abroad. However, following a couple of difficult years in the labour market, leading online recruiter, Monster, has taken a look at what Europeans are planning to do with their careers in 2004.

The Monster Meter asked What is your career goal for 2004? Over 25,000 Europeans placed a vote, revealing:

38% (9,647) Find another job within my country
14% (3,646) Find a job abroad
38% (9,464) Find a job as I am currently out of work
7% (1,693) Stay in my country and try to get promoted
3% (785) Stay in my country, and hold on to my current job

Over half of Dutch respondents (51%) are on the lookout for a new job this year, with the Irish coming close in second place (48%). Contrastingly, the Danish and Luxembourgers appear to be the happiest workers in their current jobs. In these countries, around 6% of the workers declared that their aim was to remain in their country and hold on to their current position. British and Swiss workers have the greatest desire to experience life in other countries, with around a quarter of respondents (26% and 25% respectively) seeking a job abroad. On the other hand, countries like Germany, France and Spain stood up from the rest with a considerably higher percentage of voters claiming that their goal for 2004 is to get a job as they are currently unemployed.

However, the future in the UK is looking bright. Over the last quarter, Monster.co.uk has registered an increase of 16% in job postings. This points to a trend continuing into 2004 indicating a more dynamic and buoyant labour market. The site also reflects a significant growth in the healthcare, sports and recreation and insurance sectors over the last year.

Hernan Daguerre, director of communications, Monster Europe comments, 2004 will be a year of change for many Europeans and will bring renewed vigour to those who have perhaps been considering a career change for some time. With the economy starting to show signs of recovery, we would strongly advise those who feel in need of a change to fully explore their career options. Sites such as Monster provide an insight into what kind of jobs are out there, and what kind of salary you should expect to receive, along with tips for updating your CV. They also allow you to showcase your skills 24/7, just by uploading your CV.