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Economy

Survey Suggests San Diego Workers Are Poised For New Job Opportunities

 A hiring sign at Woody's in Mission Beach, May 17, 2021.
Alexander Nguyen
A hiring sign at Woody's in Mission Beach, May 17, 2021.

As businesses struggle to fill job openings, a new survey suggests workers will have the upper hand in the job market.

Robert Half International, a global professional staffing firm, conducted the nationwide survey.

Survey Suggests San Diego Workers Are Poised For New Job Opportunities
Listen to this story by Tania Thorne

They are calling it “The Great Resignation,” because data shows more than 1 in 4 San Diego workers plan to look for a new job in the next couple of months.

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John Asdell is the San Diego Vice President of Robert Half International.

“This really should be on employers' minds," he said. "How do we reduce turnovers, the great resignation. One in 3 people nationwide are probably going to voluntarily quit.”

The "Job Optimism" survey asked more than 2,800 employees why they are considering making a job change.

San Diegans surveyed said they are looking for a salary boost, career advancement and flexibility.

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They also want to work for organizations that align with their personal values.

Asdell said employers need to assess what they are offering, because people have options now more than ever.

“In taking very intentional steps to make sure people are paid at or above market, they're given the flexibility to do their work when, and how, and where they want to, if at all possible,” he said. “And that they have a plan to get to the next part of their role.”

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Eric Bruvold, the CEO of the San Diego North Economic Development Council, said several companies in North County are hiring. He has added the listings to the council’s newsletter to inform job seekers.

‘It's a tight labor market so workers have options. And I think that you’ll see workers look around for things that provide them opportunities,” said Bruvold.

VIDEO: Survey Suggests Workers Are Considering New Job Opportunities

One opportunity that could persuade people to make a job change is a shorter commute.

“They're great companies that align the 78 corridor. You don't need to drive 30, 40, 50 minutes and fight your way through the merge,” he said.

As people explore their options, Bruvold said we will see more changes in the fall as schools and child care facilities open to full capacities.