**Britons Set to Change Jobs Seven Times Before Retirement, New Research Reveals**
Britons entering today’s workforce can expect to switch jobs more frequently than ever before, with the typical employee now predicting they’ll have held seven different roles by the time they reach retirement. This trend, highlighted in a survey involving 2,000 workers, points to an evolving job market where financial motivation, work-life harmony, and the quest for career progression are key drivers behind so much professional change.
The poll, conducted by OnePoll, discovered that over half of those surveyed (56%) pointed to the prospect of higher wages as the primary incentive for a job move. Another 42% said their focus is on achieving a healthier work-life balance. Meanwhile, more than a quarter (26%) seek improved opportunities for advancement, illustrating that aspirations for career growth remain front and centre for many UK employees.
Beyond these fundamental motivators, a significant number of workers highlighted other reasons for switching jobs. A desire for better workplace benefits was cited by 26%, while nearly a quarter admitted that escaping a toxic or negative workplace environment had played a role in their decisions. It appears clear that while salary matters, the broader employment package and the overall company culture weigh heavily in modern career choices.
Interestingly, tradition still holds sway for most. An overwhelming 95% of respondents valued a conventional 9-to-5 schedule, suggesting the enduring appeal of predictable routines in an age that increasingly offers more flexible work options.
The study also found generational differences in attitudes towards job mobility. Approximately three-quarters (76%) believe that younger workers — particularly those belonging to Generation Z — are notably more likely to switch careers regularly compared to their older colleagues. This view is reflected in the numbers: nearly two in five participants said they are open to a change, with younger generations leading the charge. In fact, 65% of Gen Z workers indicated a willingness to move jobs for better prospects, compared with 32% from Generation X.
In contrast, baby boomers tend to remain loyal to their employers for much longer periods, with 60% stating they prefer to stick with one organisation over many years. However, across all age groups, a notable 44% reported having worked in more than one sector during their careers. This diversity of experience is mirrored in the story of Essex entrepreneur Laura Daly, who credits her eclectic job history — including stints as a singer, dancer, and supermarket worker — for the skills and self-discipline that underpin her current business success.
Alexander Allen, managing director and chief customer officer at small business finance provider Funding Circle, observed: “Our research shows that people value passion over money when pursuing a job.” He added that it was striking to see how perspectives on job changing differ so much across generations, offering insight into the evolving values of the British workforce. “It’s encouraging to see the importance placed on workplace culture, with half of respondents listing negative environments or lacklustre benefits as reasons to move on,” he said. “While money always matters, the overall quality of life that a career offers is becoming increasingly crucial.”
Laura Daly’s journey — from supermarket aisles to the helm of Bellissima Weddings — acts as a case in point. Reflecting on her varied work history, she shared how her time interacting with customers and pushing daily offers sharpened her communication skills, while her years of dancing taught her resilience and grace under criticism. With the backing of Funding Circle, Laura was able to refurbish her business premises and oversee substantial growth, overcoming hurdles that could have otherwise held her back.
Millennials and Gen Z are particularly open to bold career changes, with the survey showing that nearly three-quarters of Gen Z would consider a completely different professional direction. This is in stark contrast to the boomer generation, among whom only a third are comfortable with radical career pivots. Indeed, just 4% of those aged 60-78 see frequent job changes as ‘normal’, compared to 37% of younger respondents.
There is also empathy for young people entering today’s workforce under more challenging circumstances. More than a third of older workers believe it is harder than ever for young people to get ahead, often pointing to tough market conditions and economic uncertainty as prime barriers to career advancement.
For those starting out, Laura Daly has some simple advice: “Choose a path that brings you joy or fuels your passion. If you love what you do, it won’t feel like work. And remember, starting from the bottom is nothing to be ashamed of — the best leaders often do.” Her words resonate in a climate where adaptability, hard work, and the continual pursuit of personal and professional satisfaction remain indispensable tools for success in an ever-changing world of work.