IrishJobs.ie survey reveals that Irelandís workers are seeking change in 2008

50% of workers resolved to change job in 2008 and half of these have already applied for a new job
70% confident of finding a position elsewhere
22% want to change career entirely

Fifty per cent of all workers surveyed by Irelandís number 1 recruitment website, IrishJobs.ie, say that they want a new job in 2008. Now at the end of January many are sticking to their New Yearís resolution and nearly one half of those planning to change job have already applied for a new position. A significant number, almost one-quarter of those surveyed claimed that they have to change job to move up the career ladder.

IrishJobs.ie has seen record levels of traffic and job applications made through the website this January. Valerie Sorohan, Marketing Manager for IrishJobs.ie commented ìJanuary is typically a busy month for jobseekers and this year has been exceptionally active for the IrishJobs.ie website.î

Confidence among jobseekers is high with 70 per cent saying they are confident of finding a good position elsewhere.

In relation to their working life, 15 per cent of respondents resolved to get organised, and 14 per cent would like to enrol in a course to improve their skills: ìWorkers realise the importance of improving on the skills that they have already acquired in their job and getting a recognised qualification, in order to further their careers,î.

22 per cent of the survey respondents said that they would like a career change in 2008. ìJobseekers are becoming more flexible about their future and are no longer dedicated to the idea of a career for life. Employers are also increasingly recognising the benefits of employees with broad experience which can bring a positive contribution to their company,î Sorohan continued.

13 per cent aimed to reduce work related stress. ìAlthough this is a relatively small percentage, work related stress is still an issue for many people in todayís workplace. It is clear that there needs to be more of a focus on work-life balance in order to ease stresses and prevent them from filtering into peopleís life outside of work,î Sorohan continued.

Following the indulgences of the holiday season, respondents were also focusing on lifestyle with 35 per cent having made a resolution to join a gym/exercise more and or go on a diet/detox. Asked what one wish they would like to come true in 2008, 20 per cent said they wish to improve their health and fitness, second only to 26 per cent of respondents wishing to win the lottery.

One third of respondents have made a New Yearís resolution to give up drinking, with half of those doing so because they over indulged during the holiday period and 34 per cent because they are broke! One respondent gave up drinking because they felt like challenging themselves!

Sorohan concluded: ì50 per cent of respondents are planning to continue or start saving in 2008, this is very positive, revealing that people are looking out for their future.î