76% of workers eye new job in 2022: Hays

86% consider to upskill.

The majority of workers, or 76% of 48,600 respondents, plan to look for a new job in the new year, whilst the remaining 24% stated they have no similar intention, Hays reported. 

“The beginning of a New Year provides people with the perfect opportunity to evaluate what is important to them and what they want from their job, so we anticipate people reflecting on their current role and what they may want from their career and seeking new opportunities,” Sue Wei, Managing Director of Hays Hong Kong SAR, said.

“The jobs market at present is a good one to be looking in if you have the necessary skills that are sought after by employers.”

Hays CEO Alistair Cox also observed that the workforce may be motivated to switch jobs after their personal development was put on pause as they attempt to keep themselves afloat through the crisis. 

“Upskilling for many has been off the radar, a secondary concern that can wait until tomorrow, the next month, or even the next year. That mindset is starting to shift, with many reaching for the ‘play’ button again,” Cox said in a recent blog. 

In a separate poll, Hays found that the majority of professionals continue to see upskilling as a necessity in succeeding in their careers this year. 

Out of 21,600 professionals across the globe, 86% consider the need to upskill to progress at work. 

Hays noted that the job market will continue to be competitive in 2022 with skills shortages seen to remain an acute issue globally. 

“The world of work is constantly evolving, often as a result of technological advancements, which means there is a frequent need for new skills,” Sue said.

“There is a big opportunity for workers to increase their attractiveness among potential employers and further their careers.”