Damon Mcknight
In the past, people would typically remain in the same career for their entire working life. However, this is no longer the case, and career changes are becoming increasingly common. On average, a person will experience between three and seven career changes in their lifetime, alongside 16 or more job changes. This shift can be attributed to various factors, including the desire for better pay, job satisfaction, and improved work-life balance. Younger generations, in particular, tend to change jobs more frequently, with millennials switching jobs every 2.75 years on average. This trend is also observed in Australia, where 65% of Australians have switched careers since graduating from school.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average number of career changes in a lifetime | 3-7 |
| Average number of jobs in a lifetime | 13-18 |
| Average number of jobs for baby boomers | 6 |
| Average number of jobs for millennials | A new job every 2.75 years |
| Average number of jobs for Gen Zers | 18 jobs across 6 careers |
| Number of Australians who have switched careers since school | 65% |
| Number of Australians aged 18-29 who are concerned about getting a career-related job | 67% |
| Number of Australians aged 18-29 who believe job prospects in their field are not strong | 56% |
| Percentage of people who left a job to get a better job or just for a change | 30% of males, 25% of females |
| Percentage of people who left a job for family reasons | 13% of females, 4.6% of males |
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What You'll Learn
Career changes are normal
There are many reasons for changing careers. The most common reason is dissatisfaction with one's current career salary. Many people realize the earning potential is less than desired after being in a specific career. Sometimes, a career change is inspired by a desire to follow a passion. A person may feel their current career is not fulfilling and realize they need to work in a role they feel passionate about. For example, leaving a career in finance to pursue a career as a photographer.
Another reason for changing careers is to make a difference. As working takes up a lot of our daily hours, some people decide to change careers as they want to make a difference in the world. Someone who has worked as an accountant for many years may decide to change careers to humanitarian pursuits like social work or international aid work. A change in career can also improve one's work-life balance. With the retirement age of almost 70 in Australia, being stuck in a passionless job can feel like a life sentence. Advances in technology have also made it possible for people of all ages to advance their careers.
In addition, career diversification is now normal for many school leavers. Recent figures from recruitment specialist SEEK revealed that 65% of people in the country are doing a different job than they intended since completing their education. Many organizations are increasingly seeing the benefits of career swaps, as people with experience across a variety of roles and industries can bring unique skills and experiences to the workplace.
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Job dissatisfaction
Employees may feel dissatisfied due to a perceived lack of career advancement opportunities or stagnant skill development. Organisations should address this by providing clear growth paths, implementing compensation strategies, offering training and development programs, and establishing mentorship opportunities. By investing in their employees' professional growth, organisations can demonstrate their commitment to their workforce and enhance employee satisfaction.
Additionally, job dissatisfaction can lead to employees choosing to exit the organisation. They may seek alternative employment opportunities that they perceive as more fulfilling or rewarding. Exiting can be a drastic decision, potentially impacting the employee's career trajectory and the organisation. However, it is important to note that employees may also choose to remain loyal to the organisation despite their dissatisfaction, hoping for improvements over time.
To overcome job dissatisfaction, individuals can take proactive steps such as exploring internal opportunities within the organisation. This may include transferring to different departments or taking on new roles to find a better fit that aligns with their skills and interests. Seeking additional training and mentorship can also help employees develop new job skills, improve satisfaction, and increase their chances for career growth.
Furthermore, employees can make a list of specific sources of dissatisfaction, such as people, duties, processes, or cultural elements, and then work towards addressing these issues. For example, if an employee feels overwhelmed by colleagues constantly seeking their help, they can propose a plan to provide training and empower their colleagues to resolve issues independently. This approach not only benefits the individual but can also positively impact the team or organisation as a whole.
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Work-life balance
The traditional career script of the past, where one would remain in the same career for their entire working life, is no longer the norm. In the 21st century, career changes are very normal, with the average person expected to experience between three and seven career changes and 16 to 17 jobs over their lifetime.
Millennials and younger generations tend to change jobs more regularly than older generations, with millennials changing jobs every 2.75 years on average, prioritising job satisfaction and work-life balance. Similarly, Gen Zers are predicted to have 18 jobs across six careers. Younger workers are more mobile than older workers, with 13% of people aged 15 to 24 years changing jobs.
A person's career no longer follows a linear path, and the idea of the "self as enterprise" has emerged, with cultural, technological, and economic transformations changing the nature and meanings of work. The COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in this shift, as workplaces have had to become more adaptable, and employees have experienced and embraced flexibility in their working lives.
In addition to improving work-life balance, there are several other reasons why individuals may choose to change careers. These include:
- Following a passion: An individual may realise their current career is not fulfilling, and they desire to work in a role that aligns with their passions.
- Making a difference: Some individuals may seek a career that allows them to make a positive impact in the world and provides personal satisfaction.
- Salary and job satisfaction: Dissatisfaction with one's current salary or a desire for more job satisfaction can motivate people to change careers.
- Adaptability and unique skill sets: Employees with experience in various roles and industries can offer adaptability, resilience, and a diverse set of skills and perspectives that are highly valued by employers.
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Career progression
On average, a person will experience between three and seven career changes and 16 jobs in their lifetime. Younger people are more likely to change jobs than older workers, with millennials changing jobs every 2.75 years on average, prioritizing job satisfaction and work-life balance. Gen Zers are predicted to have 18 jobs across six careers.
There are several reasons for the increase in career changes. Firstly, the nature of work has changed due to globalisation, competition, and the free flow of goods and services across borders. This has created a more uncertain and less linear pathway to work, requiring young people to develop soft skills to navigate the contemporary workforce successfully.
Secondly, the COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in shifting attitudes towards work. The pandemic forced workplaces to become more adaptable, and many workers experienced the benefits of flexibility and improved work-life balance. As a result, workers are now seeking careers that fit their lifestyles rather than the other way around.
Additionally, career diversification is becoming increasingly normal, with 65% of Australians switching careers since school. Organisations are recognising the benefits of career swaps, as employees with diverse skill sets and industry experience can bring unique perspectives and adaptability to the workplace.
For those seeking to make a career change, there are several options available. Retraining or studying completely different skills can open up new career paths. For example, the Australian Institute of Business (AIB) offers research degrees such as Master of Management, Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), and PhD programmes.
Furthermore, advances in technology have made it possible for people of all ages to advance their careers. Online resources and educational platforms provide accessible learning opportunities, enabling individuals to upskill or reskill and make career transitions more seamlessly.
In conclusion, career progression in today's world involves multiple career changes throughout one's lifetime. This is driven by shifting global economic trends, the impact of the pandemic, and the recognition of the benefits of career diversification. Individuals can navigate these changes by embracing lifelong learning, adapting to new technologies, and seeking out educational opportunities that align with their career aspirations.
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Job market
The job market in Australia has been undergoing significant changes in recent years, with an increasing number of people changing careers multiple times throughout their working lives. The traditional idea of having one linear career for life is becoming outdated, and career changes are becoming more common and acceptable. Several factors are contributing to this shift in the job market.
Firstly, younger generations, such as Millennials and Gen Zers, are more likely to change jobs frequently, prioritizing job satisfaction, professional growth, and work-life balance. This differs from older generations, such as Baby Boomers, who typically worked for a smaller number of employers throughout their careers. The desire for more fulfilling and meaningful work, better salaries, and improved work-life balance are also driving factors for career changes across all age groups.
Secondly, the impact of the recent pandemic has led to a shift in work preferences. Many Australian workers experienced increased flexibility during lockdown periods and are now seeking careers that offer better hours and improved work-life balance. This has resulted in a growing trend of career changes, as people prioritize their lifestyle and well-being.
Additionally, technological advancements and globalisation have transformed the job market, creating a need for different skill sets. Soft skills, such as digital literacy, critical thinking, and adaptability, are becoming increasingly important for young Australians to navigate the contemporary workforce. The automation and globalisation of the workplace may also contribute to the perception of an evaporating career path, as traditional career structures are challenged.
The job market in Australia also reflects a trend towards career diversification. Recent figures from recruitment specialist SEEK show that 65% of Australians are doing a different job than they intended since completing their education. This suggests that career swaps are becoming more accepted and even advantageous in the eyes of employers. Organisations are recognising the benefits of employees with diverse skill sets and perspectives gained from experiencing various roles and industries.
Lastly, the high retrenchment rate and job mobility among Australian workers contribute to the dynamic nature of the job market. As of February 2024, the annual retrenchment rate was 1.7%, and 13% of people aged 15 to 24 changed jobs, indicating a fluid and ever-changing job landscape.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, a person in Australia will make between three to seven career changes in their lifetime. However, younger people are more likely to change jobs than older workers.
People change careers for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common reasons include dissatisfaction with salary, lack of passion, the desire for more job satisfaction, and the need for a better work-life balance.
While there is limited data comparing career changes across different countries, it is worth noting that career changes are becoming more common in Australia. 65% of Australians have switched careers since school, and younger generations are more likely to change jobs frequently.
