Career confidence among professionals has fallen to its lowest level in recent years, according to new research released by Hays.
Based on a survey of over 5,100 professionals and employers as part of the Hays Salary & Recruiting Trends 2026 guide, including over 300 in Northern Ireland, the research reveals that only 37% (36% in NI) feel positive about their career prospects for next year - a decline from 43% (45% in NI) a year ago.
The majority - 51% of respondents in the UK and 52% in NI - are uncertain, while 12% feel negative about what’s around the corner.
This marks the lowest level of career optimism since the first year of the pandemic, when only 37% of workers across the UK reported feeling positive about their future, according to Hays data.
As a result of career dissatisfaction, workers look set to move, with 62% (61% in NI) expecting to change roles in the next 12 months – up from 57% (52% in NI) in 2024.
In addition, 48% of professionals (53% in NI) believe there’s no scope for them to progress their career in their current organisation.
If workers hold true to their intentions – employers should expect to face mounting challenges in retaining talent. The biggest obstacles employers cited in holding onto staff include an inability to match market salary expectations, a competitive job market attracting talent elsewhere, high workloads and burnout, and a lack of clear career progression opportunities.
The research highlights a shift in priorities, with purpose, balance, and belonging now central to career decisions. For those satisfied in their current roles, the top drivers include a good fit with colleagues (50% in total and 57% in NI) and flexible working patterns (43% overall and 41% for NI).
When considering a new role, professionals are looking beyond salary. A positive work atmosphere tops the list, followed by a strong benefits package, job location, and career development opportunities. Many would even accept a lower-paid role for better work-life balance (53% overall and in NI), a greater sense of purpose (22% and 21% in NI), or improved wellbeing support (16% and 14% in NI).
Despite this, salary satisfaction has also slipped, with 40% of professionals – 44% in Northern Ireland – saying they are unhappy with their salary or rate of pay - up from a third of respondents last year.
Mark Wade, Director of Hays in Northern Ireland, said: “It’s clear that a lot of people in Northern Ireland are not feeling particularly confident about their careers and changes announced in the recent Budget may add further pressures to the job market, perhaps leading some higher earners to seek a change of job in early 2026.
“While our survey findings indicate many professionals feel stuck and don’t see opportunities for progression with their current employers, we are also seeing further evidence that there has been a change in what is important to people when it comes to their job and career.
“It is no longer simply about salary for many people – purpose, balance and belonging are driving career decisions and employers need to recognise this “emotional economy” of work if they want to hold on to their best people and attract fresh talent. Being transparent and creating an attractive culture is more important than ever.
“As in the wider UK, if we see confidence bouncing back in 2026, we could see a significant surge in job moves in Northern Ireland and potentially the next wave of the so-called ‘Great Resignation’. For professionals, this is a good time to take control of their careers, seek development opportunities and redefine what success looks like.”
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