45 Percent of People in the UK Dream About a Complete Career Change – With 38 Percent Finding a Career in Tech More Desirable, According to New Research

Additionally, a whopping seven in ten people surveyed admit that they know several people that are unhappy in their careers or feel stuck in a rut. So, it’s no surprise that people in their thirties are the most likely to be planning a complete work make-over.

The technology sector proves to be a popular industry for those looking for a change with, one in four admitting they would like to make the move into the technology sector but don’t have the skills to make the leap.

 

App developer (11 percent), video game designer (10 percent), web designer (10 percent) and VR/AI engineer (four percent) all feature in the nation’s dream tech-based jobs.

Andrew Moffat, General Manager at Le Wagon UK, which commissioned the research said, "Our research indicates just how many people are stuck in a career rut and want to try something new. Switching your career by learning new tech skills can often seem like a huge leap, but every day at Le Wagon we see people at all stages of their life transform their career opportunities in just 9 weeks. Within 6 months, over 90% of our students then use our dedicated career services and employer networks to find a job that fits their needs, passions, and ambition.

 

“Tech skills, like being able to develop an app, offer greater earning potential and flexibility in terms of remote work when compared to more traditional roles. These skills also serve as a great foundation for becoming an entrepreneur.”

A third (29 percent) of the people polled would love to start an app-based business, with one in five (19 percent) saying they have a winning idea for a new application already in mind.

A third (30 percent) also agree that a career in tech would be rewarding and satisfying, with four in ten (38 percent) saying that it is becoming more and more desirable.

When it comes to starting a business, half (49 percent) admit that not having to answer to anyone is a motivation, while two-thirds (63 percent) are just looking for an enjoyable job that pays for their outgoings.

Four in ten (40 percent) confess they are not brave enough to make the jump into a completely different career. The biggest barriers are the fear of the unknown (60 percent), having to take a pay cut (43 percent) and getting your foot in the door (41 percent). A third (32 percent) admit that retraining puts them off.

 

"We see students of all ages looking to switch careers. Often it's the high earnings in the tech industry that attracts people. However, we've seen a huge increase in people looking for more flexibility. Tech employers are still advocates of remote and flexible work, attractive for the autonomy and work-life balance it offers. We've also seen an increase in people looking for more meaning in their work and want to use their new tech skills to develop projects for social good." Alex Tombeur, VP Global Operations, Le Wagon

Of those who have made the leap and changed their career, the advice is to have the confidence and courage in yourself (44 percent), don’t be afraid of doing something different (38 percent) and just be brave and go for it (36 percent). Remembering that life is too short to stay in a job you don’t like (41 percent) is also key.

If you’re looking for a career switch in the new year, there’s still chance to apply for a place at Le Wagon London’s January bootcamps here.