Six in 10 workers feel stuck in jobs they no longer find fulfilling due to financial concerns and skill gaps, according to a new survey from Resume Now.
The survey of 1,000 American workers found that 60 per cent remained in roles longer than desired because they feared financial instability or salary reductions associated with career transitions. While nearly two-thirds (66 per cent) believe changing careers would increase their happiness, only 13 per cent have successfully made the leap.
“Career changes can feel daunting, especially when financial concerns and uncertainty come into play,” said Keith Spencer, a career expert at Resume Now. “But today’s job market is shifting—employers are prioritizing skills over degrees, and switching careers doesn’t mean starting from scratch.”
Financial worries topped the list of barriers, with 35 per cent of respondents fearing lower salaries and 34 per cent concerned about financial instability during a job change. An additional 32 per cent were unsure if a new career would be a good fit.
Workers increasingly prefer quicker, flexible upskilling options, with 56 per cent opting for on-the-job learning or employer-provided training rather than traditional education. Only 16 per cent expressed interest in returning to school for a new degree, highlighting a shift toward faster skill acquisition.
The motivation behind career transitions remains predominantly financial: 57 per cent cited better pay and benefits as the primary incentive. Improved work-life balance was important to 29 per cent, while remote work appealed to 19 per cent of respondents. Job dissatisfaction—including burnout—motivated 17 per cent of potential career changers.
Spencer noted that strategic planning could alleviate some fears associated with career changes, emphasizing the importance of transferable skills.
“By leveraging transferable skills and taking a strategic approach to the job search, workers can transition into new roles with confidence,” Spencer said.
The survey, conducted by Pollfish on Feb. 23, 2025, explored career satisfaction, willingness to switch industries, and preferred skill-building methods.
