OFFICE attitudes could be changing as the job market begins to recover from the economic downturn.

As the market improves, employees will most likely gain more power in the workplace, compared to the last few years — more available jobs equals more opportunities for workers to explore.

Adecco Group North America, a workplace recruitment provider, wanted to see if American workers were still “in love” with their current jobs. After surveying employees, it seems that changing careers could be on the horizon. Fewer workers (72 per cent) love their jobs compared to last year (78 per cent). And only 39 per cent of respondents feel the economic downturn has made them more grateful for their positions.

Younger generations see returning to school as a viable option. Twenty-six per cent of Generation Y workers are nervous about their job stability and 27 per cent feel less love toward their job this year. The economy has also impacted worker confidence in company management. And only 10 per cent of respondents appreciate their boss.

“As America recovers from a tough economic climate in 2009, those who survived the recession may be questioning if they still want the same job or career when employment opportunities rebound,” says Joanie Ruge, senior vice-president of Adecco Group North America. “I think we’re going to see business leaders start to get a little more aggressive — thinking about and consciously deciding when to shift to a more optimistic, opportunistic employment stance. That shift is going to be critical for employers who want to attract and retain the best, strongest talent.”

Added Ruge: “Likewise, for candidates today who may be looking to shift careers or experience. They may want to consider applying for temporary and project-based jobs that can shift their career in the direction of higher growth opportunities.”

Adecco provides tips for employers to prepare for a likely change in the job market:

* Communication is key. Be sure to encourage employee feedback and keep workers up-to-date with company decisions and information.

* Try to make retention a top concern. Build trust and maintain dialogue among staff members. Inform workers about the business challenges and how the company hopes to overcome them. Workers should feel that they are an important part of the business.

* Recognise and reward workers. Improve office morale by pointing out good work. It can be through small acts, such as a Thank-You note or a small gift card or by verbally recognising the person at a meeting.

— Creators News Service