For thousands of workers in Australia, the past 2.5 years provided a period of growth: they adapted to new ways of working and acquired technological capabilities in record time. This leap made many confident in their own abilities and in the possibilities of growing professionally and finding better job opportunities.

This realisation, coupled with burnout, which makes many workers feel overworked and undervalued, are the clearest triggers of the trend that seems to be setting in across Australia: 2023 will be a year of career change.

A LinkedIn survey of more than 1,000 Australian workers over the age of 18 put numbers to this trend: about three in five (59%) workers are considering to switch jobs in 2023, and over half say they feel confident they’ll find something better.

Read more: Employee Experience: How to get it right for frontline workers

Optimism and self-confidence define the attitude of workers willing to take that leap in their careers. 

“That’s quite a high level of people thinking about taking on a new job this year. And what’s interesting is confidence is up,” Cayla Dengatem, Senior News Editor, Linkedin, told news.com.au.

The reasons for wanting change are varied, but according to a Linkedin study, the main ones mentioned are: 

• To earn more money (40%)

• To enjoy better work-life balance (31%)

If it’s so easy for many workers to leave, what can employers do to retain them? 

According to LinkedIn research, implementing a four-day work week was critical. Over 35% of respondents mentioned it would be an aspect of workplace culture that would inspire them to stay. Other incentives to retain talent include food, travel and free gym membership. 

Read more: Best practices are one thing, making them work is another: Leaders at WEF

Indeed, the dynamics of the labour market appear to have undergone a shift: now, it is not only candidates who must compete for a job, but employers must also "sell" them the idea of a great work experience along the lines of a great employer brand. 

Ultimately, however, everything boils down to how companies deliver on their promise. The data suggest, workers will not think twice in this case before looking for other options.