Feb 15, 2008

New Year Sees Employees Looking for New EmploymentSource: Society for Human Resource Management HR Week

A recent survey conducted by SnagAJob.com and IPSOS Public Affairs recently found that one in four U.S. workers will be seeking new employment in 2008 – and some may be looking to supplement their income with a second job – according to an article in the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) HR Week. “That percentage rises dramatically for those who are employed hourly, are 18-34 years old or are Hispanic.”

According to the survey, 31 percent of hourly workers, 40 percent of Americans ages 18 to 34 and 54 percent of employed Hispanics said they plan to look for a new job, while only 19 percent of salaried workers said they would be doing so.

“The overall employment picture in the U.S. remains strong, but this survey suggests that there are underlying concerns in the workforce, particularly with respect to uncertainty over the impact of the housing crisis and rising energy prices,” said Shawn Boyer, CEO of SnagAJob.com.

In seeking those new jobs, they’re looking for more than just a way to pay the bills, from comprehensive health insurance to better, clearer work policies. Given a list of 15 benefits and factors that are considered important in choosing a job, 84 percent said health insurance was the most important. Other factors noted as important:

• Job security and clear policies and procedures (82 percent each).
• Retirement or pension plan (76 percent).
• Flexible, family-friendly workplace (71 percent).