The start of a New Year can spark many resolutions; to go to the gym more, eat less chocolate or even quit smoking, but for some, it is to find a new job.

In fact, more than half of Brits are considering finding a new job in 2020, an increase of eight per cent last year, new research has found.

According to a survey of 1,200 Brits by Investors in People, two in three (65%) of workers confessed that they go to bed on a Sunday night dreading returning to their job, reported Yahoo! Finance.

The number of people feeling unhappy in their jobs is also on the rise, increasing by 10% year-on-year.

It was revealed that around 24% were unhappy in their job at the turn of the year, with the same number actively seeking new opportunities, plus another 32% are considering looking for a new position.

Of the 1,200 respondents, 30% said that one of the main reasons they would seek new employment is earning more money. 23% cited not feeling valued and 22% wanted a better work/life balance.

However, when it comes to retaining employees and keeping them happy, 14% rated a simple thank you as being appreciated consistently for over the last four years.

“Six years into our job exodus research, we’re still hearing that people want to be told ‘thank you’ and one in four people are looking for a new job because they don’t feel valued,” said Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People.

“‘Thank you’, something so simple, so consistently important and potentially the best retention tool we’ve got.”

When it comes to retaining staff, a friendly workplace and supportive culture are key. For example, more than half of respondents said that having friends at work is important to them, while a quarter admitted to staying in a role because of their friendships rather than enjoyment.

47% revealed that they would prefer a friendly workplace than a three per cent pay rise.

(Credit to Executive Grapevine)