DutchNews.nl - We'd like to switch jobs, but are too scared to do so

Some 75% of workers in the Netherlands would like to change jobs but are too scared to do so because of the possible consequences, according to new research for the social affairs ministry.

Losing a permanent contract is the major stumbling block for 54% of workers, 51% fear the loss of job security and 44% worry about a smaller pay cheque, the research shows.

The results of the research were presented by social affairs minister Henk Kamp at a conference on labour mobility in Utrecht on Wednesday. Kamp hopes planned reforms to redundancy law, making it easier and cheaper to sack staff, will encourage greater labour mobility.

The survey showed the main motivation for wishing to change jobs is money (55%), followed by a new challenge (49%) and remaining motivated (37%).

The research also showed that 91% of workers are prepared to undergo an annual health check but only 50% thought the results should remain secret from their employers. At the moment, some 13% of companies offer staff health screening.

Readers' Comments

In fact, I am considering changing my job, but indeed losing a permanent job to a freelancer contract scares me. Even if the freelancing comes with a bigger income. The reason I should leave is to look for a new challenge.

By Lefty | 20 June 2012 2:16 PM

So 91% when questioned were happy with a health check... were they all aged 25? Let's see this reduce once the redundancy laws are changed.

'In his 40s, Mr vd Veldt would have a 75% chance of heart attack if his job is stressful... there's another name for the annual redundancy list! Hope he has legal insurance in place.'

Come to think of it actually, aren't insurers and lawyers going to be the only ones who'll benefit? Not counting their friends, the rightwing policitians.

By osita | 20 June 2012 9:21 PM

Yes it would be terrible to lose that cushy life eh. Left in name, left in practise.

By Sir Charles Moore | 21 June 2012 11:04 AM

Cushy in what respect?

I didn't know that security for your family was a bad "lefty" thing now.

I assume you're single or have an inheritance waiting for you, posh boy?

By CW | 21 June 2012 2:36 PM