More than one in two Kiwis likely to change roles in 2013

Monday 20th May 2013

More than half of employees working in New Zealand’s professional sector indicate they plan to change jobs over the next 12 months, according to the 2013 Michael Page New Zealand Employee Intentions Report.

The survey findings, based on the responses of over 250 New Zealand professionals, reveal 6% of those surveyed are very likely to move roles. Of this group, just over a quarter (26%) are looking for a role with the opportunity to progress their career, followed by 17% wanting a more senior position.

“The high percentage of respondents planning to change roles this year is a result of positive hiring activity, which follows improved domestic business and economic conditions,” says Pete Macauley, Regional Director of Michael Page in New Zealand.

“The considerable level of expected staff turnover should encourage employers to act to attract and retain top talent for their business by devising structured career development plans and training opportunities, as well as offering competitive remuneration including bonuses,” Mr Macauley adds.

The inaugural Employee Intentions Report for New Zealand also found that an increase in salary is important for many of the professionals surveyed, with the greatest percentage (32%) looking for a significant salary increase of 10-12%. Many jobseekers are also focused on the chance to receive a bonus; with 39% of those surveyed indicating this is their preferred benefit. According to Mr Macauley, these employee intentions are a reflection of the stabilising local economy leading to positive employee sentiment and career expectations.

“As employment activity was quite stagnant in previous years, employees had less opportunity to move roles. Also, the sluggish economy didn’t allow employers much room to offer wage rises. Now employees are taking advantage of improved employment conditions to seek a role that will elevate their career. Similarly, professionals also expect a hike in wages in line with stabilising economic conditions as well as the chance to earn a bonus,” he explains.

“As organisations have struggled to reach targets over the past three to four years this has impacted bonus payments, and employees are now looking for realistic targets that enable them to receive a bonus. Target levels need to be revised to reflect the current economy and market, not the pre-GFC economy,” Mr Macauley adds.

Key survey findings: (Source: 2013 Michael Page New Zealand Employee Intentions Report)

· 56% of surveyed professionals are very likely to change roles in the coming year.

· 26% of respondents looking for a new role are focused on a position with career progression opportunities.

· 39% of surveyed professionals choose getting a bonus as their preferred benefit.

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