Asentis

People Not as Quick to Job-Hop

Posted on the 26th April 2011

 

Executive Connections Survey shows people remaining longer in current jobs before looking for next position 

There is a marked difference in the length of time job hunters are prepared to stay in their current position before considering a move, when compared with the same period twelve months ago according to a new survey* conducted by Executive Connections Recruitment Consultants. 

Results from the year long survey, which compares statistics for 2006 with those for 2007, show that in 2006 a significant majority (32%) were moving to a new company after less than two years in their current position. One year later this figure has almost halved with only 15% considering a move after this length of time. In 2007 the majority of people (24%) were staying in their roles for between 2 and 4 years before considering a change. 

One interesting aspect of the survey is that reasons cited by respondents for wanting to make a move from their current position have changed little year on year, with very few people (3%) citing salary as their primary reason for a move. The majority (24%) point to better career progression as their main motivation for moving to another company. 

Commenting on the survey Tracy Donohoe, Managing Director of Executive Connections says: 

“The survey contradicts media hype on retention issues and bodes well for employers who are investing heavily in career development paths for employees. However employers should take note that the majority of candidates who were making a move within the Dublin marketplace were doing so as they perceived that there were better career progression opportunities elsewhere.” Donohoe continues: 

“This points to the importance of succession planning and regular career reviews within the workplace to ensure that employees feel valued and don’t fall into the trap of thinking that the grass is greener elsewhere.” 

Significantly, the survey also revealed a marked increase in the number of organisations seeking to employ graduates making a move into the employment market for the first time- 33% up from 8%. Other results show that: 

- The financial services market in Dublin is still proving attractive to candidates. Just under one third (29%) of placements year on year were for people relocating into the Dublin market both from abroad and from other areas in the country. 

- Commuting times were cited by 15% of individuals as reasons for leaving their current job, up from 10% 12 months ago. 

- In 2006 30% of individuals were prepared to stay only one year in their current position before moving. By 2007 this dropped to 15% 

- 8% were looking to move after more than 5 years with their current employer, double that in the previous 12 months when the figure stood at 4%. 

- Better career progression is cited by the majority of candidates/ respondents (24%) as their reason for moving in 2007 and 2006 (25%) 

Speaking of the demand for skilled employees this year Donohoe says: “So far indicators bode well for the employment market in 2008 particularly in the banking and financial services arena with demand for skilled candidates on a par with previous years, and an increased demand for those with specialist experience particularly in the areas of risk and compliance.” 

As well as traditional employee search selection and head-hunting services, Executive Connections offer Human Resources Consulting services including career management, staff training and work-life balance programmes. 

-ENDS- 

Notes to editor: *The survey was conducted of a random sample of 100 people placed during the period. 

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