In June 2026, a report by the job recruitment platform Indeed revealed significant insights into the career aspirations of employees in Ireland. The research, conducted by Censuswide, surveyed 1,000 jobseekers and employees, uncovering that a substantial 75% of participants expressed a desire to transition into a new field. However, despite this ambition, many individuals are hindered by various factors that create barriers to making such a change. Financial uncertainty emerged as a primary concern, with 31% of respondents indicating that worries about their financial situation prevent them from pursuing new career opportunities. Additionally, 23% of participants expressed apprehension about starting over as a beginner in a new field, while another 23% feared they lacked the necessary qualifications for a different role. This uncertainty is compounded by a lack of clarity regarding which jobs would be suitable for their existing skill sets, with over 60% of respondents believing they possess transferable skills but unsure of their relevance in the current job market.
The report also highlighted a significant gap in career coaching utilization, with only 21% of participants having ever engaged with a career coach. The barriers to accessing career coaching include a lack of awareness about the benefits of such services, concerns about costs, and uncertainty regarding how to find a coach. Conor McCarthy, the vice-president at Indeed, commented on the findings, noting that many individuals feel that career support is either inaccessible or too generic to be beneficial. The research indicates that while ambition is prevalent among Ireland's workforce, the lack of guidance and confidence in navigating career transitions remains a significant obstacle.
Furthermore, the report revealed that 71% of respondents wished they could ask questions about potential roles or companies before applying, and 54% admitted to struggling to articulate why they would be a good fit for a position during interviews. This suggests that employees are not only eager for change but also seek more support and resources to facilitate their transitions. The findings underscore the importance of addressing these barriers to empower employees to pursue their dream careers and adapt to the evolving job landscape, particularly in light of growing concerns about the impact of AI and automation on future employment opportunities.
In conclusion, the research from Indeed paints a picture of a workforce in Ireland that is ready for change but is held back by various uncertainties and a lack of support. As employees navigate their professional futures, it is crucial for organizations and career support services to provide the necessary resources and guidance to help individuals overcome these challenges and realize their career aspirations.
