Despite recent layoffs and ongoing economic uncertainty, workers are feeling good about their job prospects. Robert Half’s latest Job Optimism Survey shows that almost half (46%) of professionials are currently looking or plan to look for a new job in the first half of 2023. This is the highest reading over the past 18 months.
Many of these workers are thinking about contracting, rather than traditional employment. Almost one-third (29%) of respondents said they would consider a full-time contracting career.
The top motivation for job switching is a higher salary (61%), distantly followed by better benefits and perks (37%) and greater flexibility to choose when and where they work (36%).
Robert Half also identified three factors that cause candidates to lose interest in a job:
- Unclear or unreasonable job responsibilities
- Poor communication with the hiring manager
- Misalignment with the company culture and values
“The employment landscape is changing day to day, and it will be interesting to see how the next few months pan out,” said Paul McDonald, senior executive director of Robert Half. “Regardless of what happens, employers can’t take their foot off the pedal when it comes to earning trust and driving engagement with current staff and creating a positive experience for potential hires.”
