January 31 is the day Brits are most likely to hand in their notice, new research from Crunch Accounting reveals today.
The study found that a potential 10.3 million workers are considering moving on professionally (32.5% of the UK’s workforce) – but most will hang on until after January’s payday before handing in their notice.
New Year resolutions are the reason a third of people plan to take the plunge in January, while others can’t bear the thought of another whole year at work (43%) or are yearning for a fresh start (43%).
Bad bosses topped the list of reasons why people want to quit, with almost half of respondents (46%) listing it as a factor in their decision. A lack of career progression (36%) narrowly beat lousy pay (35%), while stress (34%) and the commute (22%) all ranked highly. Nearly one in five (18%) Brits are quitting to follow their dream of starting a new business.
Darren Fell, CEO and founder of Crunch Accounting, who commissioned the research, said: “It’s that time of year again when people start drawing up their plans for New Year resolutions – and it looks like a career change is high on the list.
“In all honesty, we’re not hugely surprised – why should people slog away in 9-5 roles they no longer find fulfilling? In the modern world of work, people should be able to find flexible, exciting careers that fit their lifestyle, whether that’s in a change of job, industry or following their dream of becoming their own boss. Here’s to 2017 – the year to make a fresh new start!”
Today’s research also shows that this is by no means a rash decision – almost two thirds of people have been contemplating giving notice for six months or longer, while a third (32%) admitted they have been considering it for 12 months or more. Nearly three quarters (70%) of employees even admitted they fantasise about quitting their job – with a quarter (26%) saying it’s a regular occurrence.
And how do people recognise that it’s time to move on? The tell-tale symptoms these disgruntled employees all have in common include clock-watching (46%), Sunday night dread (41%) and constant complaining to family and friends (30%).
For anyone thinking it’s time for a career change and considering setting up their own business, visit Crunch Accounting’s Get Started campaign for advice on how to make it happen.
