It is not difficult to see that work history can be very different over the course a person’s life. According to a Bureau of Labor Statistics survey, people born between 1957-64 have changed their jobs an average of 5.8 times between the years of 18 and 24, and 2 to 4 times between the age of 25 and 34. This number drops to 2.9 changes between the ages of 35 and 44, and 1.9 changes between 45 and 52. This trend is not always indicative of career changes.
Gen Z
One of the most important traits of Gen Z workers is their willingness to change career direction if it serves their best interests. In fact, 44 percent of Gen Zers would rather be unemployed than stay in a job they don't enjoy. These traits are beneficial to both Gen Z employees as well as employers.
A recent survey showed that nearly 80 percent of Gen Z professionals would consider a total career change, whether in a different industry or a different job function. Half of these young professionals are open to moving to a new place for their new position. Twenty percent of Gen Z workers agreed that more variety in their job would be appealing.
Millennials
While some people remain loyal to their job for the rest of their lives, others change jobs frequently until they find the right job. Many reasons people change careers. Here are a few of them: millennials, baby boomers, and the general population. Most people don’t like being stuck in the exact same situation for their entire lives.
Many people seek work that is more rewarding and satisfying. Opportunities in education, healthcare and environmental sectors are all common. Others may want to change careers in order to make more money. According to a survey by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average worker changes jobs five to seven times throughout their lifetime, and this number is expected to continue to rise in the coming decades. Moreover, a changing economy is making career changes more likely. People are working longer hours and part-time.
Gen X
The next generation of workers will join the workforce in the next few years, and their expectations for their jobs have shifted. In comparison to the previous generations, Gen Z and millennial workers are likely to stay in their jobs for an average of three years. The reason for this shift is based on their generational identity and the stage in their lives. Because of this, they will be looking for better job flexibility, better compensation, and better benefits. Their Gen X counterparts are less likely to change their careers.
Gen Xers like to have clear expectations and goals when working. This helps them to stay motivated. For instance, they might ask multiple questions to determine project requirements. They then create their own plan for completing the project. They may also provide general guidance to team members if needed.
Baby boomers
Many of the baby boomers are considering a change in career. They are an independent, highly educated group. Many of these people grew up during times of reform, challenging the status quo. They are not afraid of conflict and will challenge the accepted ways of doing things. They are also goal-oriented and committed to their career.
Baby boomers have a wide variety of career experiences. They know what interests them and what kinda contribution they are looking for. Change of career is a great way to discover new interests, broaden their skills, and gain a fresh perspective. Career change allows them to explore different industries and locations as well as different job functions.