Young Professionals In The East Midlands Seek Major Change Before Milestone Birthday
- New survey reveals that more than three quarters of the millennial workforce in the East Midlands likely to make a major job or career change as they hit their quarter life crisis
- A lack of passion about their current job or career and the desire for a more rewarding job could be key reasons for considering a change
- Seven in ten people surveyed believe teaching could provide them with a more fulfilling career
New market research1 released today reveals that more than three quarters (77%)2 of the millennial workforce3 in the East Midlands are likely to make a major change to their current job or career in the near future. Over a third (35%) admit their current career isn’t something they feel passionate about, with more than nine in ten (91%) people stating they have felt at a crossroads at least once in their professional lives.
Life stage and time of year are both factors when making a career overhaul, as almost a quarter (24%) of respondents aged 21-39 cite being in their 20s and 30s as the time they would make a switch.
January also continues to be a key point in the calendar year for many, as around one in eight people (12%) in the East Midlands would most likely consider making a change to their lifestyle then.
The national survey of over 2,000 professionals aged 21-40 for Get Into Teaching – the national campaign aimed at encouraging people across the country to consider teaching as a career – explores working millennials’ career perceptions and the quarter life career dilemma.
More than half (51%) of those surveyed in the East Midlands cited a desire for a more rewarding career and wanting better long-term prospects (39%) among the factors that would make them consider a career change before reaching their 40th birthday. Asked what factors are most likely to prompt them to make a lifestyle change, 53% cited wanting something that motivates them more, and wanting more rewarding interactions (32%).
When asked about teaching as a future career option, seven in ten (70%) people in the East Midlands agreed4 that the profession could provide them with a more fulfilling career.
This appetite for change, and interest in teaching among those at a career crossroads, is also highlighted by visits to the Get Into Teaching website – which peaked in January last year with over 400,000 users.
Roger Pope, spokesperson for the Get Into Teaching campaign and a National Leader of Education, said:
“For many people the start of a new year is the time they are most likely to make a significant change to their lifestyle and this can include their job or career.
“This research highlights the importance to young professionals of being in a rewarding role they feel passionate about and how they want to make a change and forge a new career path before they reach their 40th birthday. This is where teaching comes into its own - particularly for those who are looking for a career that is rooted in purpose and that can provide fulfilment and long-term prospects.
“I would encourage anyone wondering what their day job means to them at this time of year to visit the Get Into Teaching website and register their interest.”
Harriet Minter, a career coach and women in leadership advocate, said:
“Your late twenties and thirties are a time of considerable personality development and growth, and it’s not surprising that more and more people are finding themselves at a career crossroads. People’s values, goals and motivations can change, so it makes sense that a growing number of professionals are coming to the realisation that they are in a career that is very different to what they had imagined when they first entered the working world. The desire for more fulfilment and a greater sense of purpose are recurring themes that I work with as a career coach.
“As more people seek work that better matches their values, it’s clear to see why many would consider teaching. Not only is it a profession that allows you to make a positive and lasting impact on children’s lives and society, but it is also one that provides great progression opportunities.”
The Get Into Teaching team has experienced advisers available to give free support and advice. For more information about teaching as a career and to register your interest visit: https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk or call the Get Into Teaching line on 0800 389 2500.