In a survey study recently released by Randstad, the second largest HR services and staffing company in the world, it seem that 51% of US workers are exploring other job options. The other interesting thing to note about this result is that it’s up by 6% since the previous quarter. We’re losing patience, it would seem.
The basic message in this study is that a significant number of people in the workforce, 43%, believe their careers have slowed down. The study seems to mirror what many people are feeling. The prevailing idea is that while we’re all glad to have the jobs we have had during this tough economic situation, our career trajectory has slowed down. Additionally, the attitude is it will be harder to achieve career growth that existed either before the slow down or expected by employees.
Certainly a side effect of the economic slow down has been to do “more with less” leaving many remaining employees taking on more work as their peers were given the pink slip. Businesses have flattened organizations as well as cut back on things that could be viewed as growth opportunities in order to focus the few people left behind on the most critical, basic functions. The work being done, while important, isn’t the stuff career growth is made from.
There were good marks given to most companies, 66%, due to company efforts at trying to keep employees engaged during this time. Despite that high point, Jim Link, managing director of Human Resources for Randstad, cautions companies to “examine career development options for their employees….before it’s too late.” In fact, this point seems to be a consistent message of Randstad’s this year. It appears Randstad is concerned that many companies will lose critical talent the minute these employees can find other opportunities. Link goes on to say “Even the most engaged employees are evaluating their career paths and determining their personal career growth strategies.”
Bad economy or not, every professional should be looking at their career growth strategies a minimum of every year. It is important for each of us to take responsibility for our career by establishing goals and tactical actions that will help ensure we achieve those goals. You have to be willing to make the tough decisions about how long you will wait for your company to support your growth. That has to get balanced against how long you think it will take you to find other opportunities outside of your company. Neither situation is particularly speedy at this time, but it’s up to you to determine what you can do now to ensure your personal career growth.
For more career tips and advice – FREE newsletter and eworkbook: http://CareerMakeoverToolKitShouldIstayorShouldIGo.com/ From Dorothy Tannahill-Moran – Your Career Change Agent from www.nextchapternewlife.com and www.mbahighway.com
Dorothy Tannahill-Moran
Dorothy Tannahill-Moran is a certified life and career coach. She works with aspiring professionals who are looking for career growth, advancement and entry into the “C” suite. As well, she works with people to overcome the sometimes daunting task of changing careers. With over 21 years in management, Dorothy has coached, trained and guided other professionals who have gone on to impressive and fulfilling careers. Her personal philosophy about careers is: “It’s not JUST a job; it’s half your life – so love your career”. You can check out her resources, blog and services at Next Chapter New Life and MBA Highway.
Harry Urschel
Margaret Buj
Laura Smith-Proulx
“Bad economy or not, every professional should be looking at their career growth strategies a minimum of every year.”
This is so true.
It’s important that professionals everywhere stop to consider their own personal brand. It isn’t up to a company to build your career for you – all they can do is give you a job. You build your own career! And business needs to always be treated as our vehicle to accomplishing personal goals, with career path being just one of many.