A new survey reveals that 38% of employed workers in the U.S. plan to look for a new job in the next six months, up from 27% planning job searches last July, according to a new survey by global staffing and recruiting agency Robert Half.
Asked about the top motivators driving their job search plans, 36% of workers said it was the desire for better benefits; 34% wanted more advancement opportunities; 33% wanted more competitive pay; and 24% cited burnout in their current position.
"Many workers felt the need to stay put in 2025, but we're beginning to see signs of a thaw as we head into the new year," Dawn Fay, Operational President of Robert Half, said. "Career growth and development are back in focus, and if an employer can't offer those opportunities, workers no longer feel compelled to stay."
According to the research, the workers most likely to launch a job search in early 2026 include tech and healthcare workers (44%), working parents (42%), and Gen Z professionals (42%). Among Gen Z (workers in their 20s) 48% want a hybrid position that requires them to be in the office only three or four times a week.
Despite a desire to land a new role, job seekers still face some common challenges. In a separate survey, Robert Half asked job seekers who are currently in-between roles about their top job search challenges. Sixty-eight percent said they expect the job search to take longer than previous searches, and other pain points include:
- Too many applicants and competition for positions (59%)
- Difficulty finding a job that matches their workplace preferences (46%)
- Their skills not matching the job requirements (37%)
"Today's job seekers are up against a crowded, noisy market," Fay said. "Finding the right fit can feel daunting, but having a clear plan, keeping your skills current, and tapping into your network and available tools can help you stand out."
