Chamber survey shows quarter of workers planning job search

The Indiana Chamber of Commerce has released the findings of its first worker survey. The chamber said results indicate nearly a quarter of respondents still expect to search for a new job next year despite feeling secure in their current jobs.

The chamber said the findings underscore the reality of the “Great Resignation” throughout the country.

“Job security does not always equal contentment for individuals. Having purpose at work, flexibility and a competitive salary are all big factors, with the first two becoming increasingly important for workers since the pandemic began,” said Indiana Chamber President Kevin Brinegar. “People quitting a job–with or without another one lined up–is on the rise and, according to the respondents who were unemployed, it’s now the most common reason why they are out of work.”

The survey was commissioned by the Institute for Workforce Excellence and Indiana Chamber Foundation. The chamber said the emphasis of the survey was on employment, the economy and the future.

According to the findings, 43% of the unemployed respondents said they had quit while 38% were terminated or laid off. Among the unemployed, the survey showed 70% were currently looking for work and 26% were not. More than half of the unemployed have been without a living wage job for more than six months.

The survey also showed a disconnect between the skills and education necessary for a stable career, with 32% of Hoosier workers saying they believe a high school diploma is all they need.

“It’s alarming that so many still believe a high school diploma will provide them the type of prosperity to sustain them throughout life,” Brinegar said. “Unfortunately, their perspective just doesn’t match up to the realities of the modern workforce.”

The chamber said the survey was conducted during the third quarter and completed by 602 Hoosiers who were employed, under-employed or unemployed.

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