U.S. Workers Want To Switch Industries, But Why?

In August, a staggering 4.3 million people in the U.S. quit their jobs as they contemplated what they desired from their careers. 

While on the surface this may seem like an abrupt proclamation of distaste about their workplace, employees have taken the time to think about whether their role was gratifying. 

For many, they realized that they were not satisfied in their current positions, leading to what many are calling the Great Resignation. So what does this reshuffle mean for the future of work? 

According to LinkedIn’s Workforce Confidence Index, 59% of 4,873 respondents are currently seeking to work in a new industry or at least considering this shift. 

The reasons for this vary greatly. For 48% of people, this decision is due to wanting to work for an employer that shares their personal values, while 44% said they wanted more career advancement opportunities. Additionally, just over one-third of respondents said they desired more flexible work hours. 

Interestingly enough, there is a minority of job hunters that said they would actually prefer to stay in their current industry. However, 40% of these workers said they wanted to develop their skills more.  

Even more, those working remotely may be more comfortable in their current industry as opposed to those who must work onsite.