Nearly half of workers in Canada rethinking careers amid coronavirus pandemic

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – The COVID-19 pandemic has a lot of us second-guessing our career choices, according to a new poll of Canadian workers.

Nearly half (47 per cent) of those polled say they are rethinking their professions, says Global staffing firm Robert Half.

“If you think back to pre-COVID-19, we moved a million miles an hour, and the pandemic has been a significant time of reflection for professionals and businesses alike,” says Mike Shekhtman, the firm’s regional vice president.

He adds the recent pandemic has allowed us time to reassess our own principles.

“I think when there’s so much uncertainty and unrest, people will just naturally question their own priorities, and whether their company’s values align with their own as well.”

The poll finds over half (60 per cent) of those rethinking their attitudes towards work are more motivated to be employed with an organization that values its staff during unpredictable times.

Schekhtman says this means showing flexibility for employees’ work-life balance, focusing on wellness—especially those working in isolation—and reinforcing the importance of their work.

“Organizations need to do everything they can to retain their top talent. And that is all about giving flexibility to and reimagining the way the workforce is taking place,” he says.

David King, a senior district president with Robert Half, adds, “As hiring begins to pick up again, employees may start weighing their career options.”

The poll notes nearly one-third (29 per cent) of those rethinking careers may want to pursue a more meaningful or fulfilling position.

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