Nearly half of Brits suffer in silence with ‘career FOMO’ because they’re not brave enough to leave their jobs, study suggests

The grass may not always be greener on the other side.

But that does not stop a huge number of employees regretting their decision to stay in their job, a survey has suggested.

Two in five workers have suffered career FOMO – the ‘fear of missing out’ – after refusing to quit their post in search of better opportunities, according to the research.

A total of 43 per cent of UK adults reported suffering anxiety after bypassing ‘a great career opportunity’ by being too hesitant to leave their current post.

The poll of 5,000 workers revealed a knock-on to the hiring market, with almost two-thirds (64 per cent) of those who have regretted a move in the past now more hesitant about seeking new opportunities.

Among reasons for being hesitant to jump ship include sacrificing work/life balance, losing current flexibility levels and learning new processes elsewhere

Some of the top reasons for worker hesitancy include sacrificing work/life balance (29 per cent), losing current levels of flexibility (26 per cent) and getting to grips with new processes somewhere else (18 per cent).

Doug Rode, from recruiter Michael Page, which commissioned the research, said: ‘It’s concerning to see that millions of British workers are experiencing regret over missed career opportunities. 

‘Nervousness around changing jobs is understandable, but don’t let it hold you back from career growth, higher salaries, and more fulfilling job experiences.

‘For those who are considering a move but not yet taking the steps to do so, I would urge action sooner rather than later.

‘Our research indicates a shift in mindset with many preparing to make bold moves. Economic predictability and a demand for new skills are driving a renewed sense of optimism.

‘There’s pent-up demand in the marketplace due to organisations not backfilling positions in the past year, which could result in a wider selection of opportunities coming to market in the not-too-distant future.

‘Candidates that put in the groundwork today will reap the rewards and avoid missed opportunities.’