Across all sectors, workers would turn to robots for career development, according to Oracle.
Time spent in lockdown has created a sense of frustration among workers. A study of more than 14,600 employees across a range of levels by Oracle and Workplace Intelligence, an HR advisory and research firm, has found that people feel ‘stuck’ in their personal and professional lives and want to regain control.
Out of control
In the UAE, 91% of respondents have been negatively impacted by the pandemic. 42% reported financial struggles, 26% reported declining mental health and a lack of career motivation and 22% felt disconnected from their own lives.
77% stated that 2021 was the most stressful year of their careers and over half felt out of control regarding their future, personal lives and careers, 46% reported losing control of their relationships. 66% reported facing mental health issues at work.
87% felt ‘stuck’ in their personal lives, anxious about their future (32%), trapped in the same routine (30%) and more lonely than ever before (28%).
Time for Change
People are motivated to make changes, but face serious challenges. 96% of respondents used the last year to reflect on their lives and stated that work-life balance (42%); mental health (40%); and workplace flexibility (40%) are now top priorities.
89% felt stuck professionally, but do not see opportunities to progress (28%), 24% are too overwhelmed to make changes. 84% report that career dissatisfaction influencing their personal lives. 97% are ready to make changes, but 89% say they face obstacles, including financial stability (34%) and a lack of confidence (20%).
Professional development is important, with many willing to give up benefits such as holidays (71%) and bonuses (71%) for better opportunities. However, 96% report some type of dissatisfaction with their employer’s support for career development.
Technology can help
96% want technology to help define their future and 87% would turn to robots for career support. 91% believed that robots could support their career better than humans; however, many respondents also saw a role for human advice and support. 94% believed that their companies should be doing more to support their needs.
Learn more about the report here.
