British workers 'staying in jobs they don't like because of lack of confidence'

Workers across the UK are staying in roles they are unhappy in because self-doubt stops them from applying for their dream job, according to new research.

More than two fifths, 42 per cent, said a lack of confidence would put them off applying for a new position, when asked by LinkedIn.

Some 22 per cent, of 2,005 adults spoken to, said fears they might dislike a new role or it would be worse than where they currently are puts them off switching job.

Before making a jump, it is thought to take a whole year of dissatisfaction in the workplace for employees to consider a switch.

LinkedIn’s careers expert, Darain Faraz, said: “Our research shows that Brits are holding themselves back and, in some instances, actively stopping themselves from going after what they really want.”

Top five barriers to moving job, according to LinkedIn

1. What if I don’t like or it’s worse than where I already am? (22 per cent)

2. I lack strong enough experience (21 per cent)

3. I am apprehensive about taking on a new role (19 per cent)

4. I don’t think I can do it (18 per cent)

5. Can’t be bothered to go through the process (16 per cent)

Fears of inadequacy also toyed with the minds of jobseekers, with 35 per cent stating they believed there would be better people applying for the same places and 24 per cent feeling that they are not impressive.

Comfort in current roles also played a major factor in putting people off change - the stability of a permanent position made 73 per cent of those asked less likely to apply for anything new.

Offering advice for finding new jobs, in conjunction with careers coach Alice Stapleton, LinkedIn advised treating a job search “as a new personal project”.

It also suggested confidence boosting activities such as jotting down “examples of experience and achievements that come to mind for each listed requirement” in a job description.

In terms of fear of the unknown, it said that an interview is also an opportunity for applicants to quiz the employer, not just vice versa.