As 2025 begins, Resume Now’s International Career Regrets Survey highlights a startling but largely hidden trend: two-thirds (66%) of workers across the U.S., UK, France, and Germany regret their career choices. The survey of 1000 professionals reveals the most common regrets shaping today’s workforce:
- 60% regret not asking for a pay raise.
- 59% wish they had prioritized work-life balance—especially Millennials and Gen Z.
- 58% regret staying at a job too long or not negotiating salaries.
- 53% wish they had spoken up more in meetings.
- 50% regret their overall career choice.
These findings point to widespread dissatisfaction and its implications for the future of work. Low job satisfaction is rarely good news for employers, at least with respect to their own employees. However, savvy HR pros may seek a silver lining by identifying opportunities for lateral moves and poaching talent.
The Downside for Employers
With two-thirds of employees regretting their career choices, employers face significant risks. Workers who feel unfulfilled in their roles are more likely to disengage, even if they aren’t actively seeking other opportunities. Lower engagement can result in decreased productivity, poor morale, and an increased likelihood of turnover over time.
These regrets also point to systemic issues that need addressing—like fair pay practices, pathways for career advancement, and fostering a culture where employees feel empowered to speak up and advocate for themselves. Employers who fail to address these gaps may see their top talent look elsewhere.
There is a potential upside, though.
The Upside for Employers
On the flip side, the widespread career dissatisfaction creates recruitment opportunities. Employees at other organizations may be ripe for poaching, particularly if they feel stuck in roles that no longer align with their goals.
Internally, companies can also capitalize on this trend by encouraging lateral career moves. Providing employees with mentorship, upskilling opportunities, and clear pathways to pivot within the organization can help retain talent while fostering a culture of growth.
The findings serve as a call to action for organizations to rethink how they attract, engage, and retain their workforce. By understanding and addressing career regrets, employers can not only mitigate risks but also position themselves as destinations for talent seeking alignment between their career dreams and their professional realities.
Lin Grensing-Pophal is a Contributing Editor at HR Daily Advisor.
The post <strong>2/3 of Workers Have Career Regrets</strong> appeared first on HR Daily Advisor.