Laid-off workers contemplate changing careers

Nearly 60 percent of laid-off workers are considering a career change, according to a survey released by Right Management Consultants on Tuesday.

Forty-four percent are considering working for themselves — four times higher than the 11 percent who are actually self-employed in the U.S. — according to the survey, which was based on responses from more than 2,500 people receiving career transition services from Right Management.

Of the 56 percent considering career changes, only about 40 percent go through with it, said the Philadelphia-based firm. That includes about one in three who switch industries, but perform the same job function, and less than 10 percent who start their own business.

“There is a trend toward more displaced employees switching industries for their next jobs, but fewer going into business for themselves,” Senior Vice President Brian Clapp said. “Industry-switching is becoming more common as fields such as banking, communications and others continue to consolidate, creating fewer opportunities in those areas. Also, fewer people turn to self-employment as a career alternative in a better job market.”

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