42% of marketers are mulling job changes over Christmas

Nearly half (42%) of marketing professionals across Asia-Pacific will be looking for other job opportunities in the New Year, said a study done by marketing recruiter Font.The main reasons behind their job dissatisfaction are pay and benefits (39%), followed by a lack of professional development opportunities (26%) and long working hours (17 %).These conditions have prompted 42% of marketers to consider a change of jobs in 2015. Almost two-thirds (63 %) will be re-evaluating their career goals over the Christmas season.These insights stem from a recent study by Font, which surveyed 276 marketing, digital, communications and creative professionals across Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and New Zealand on their thoughts about marketing and career opportunities during the Christmas festive season.Of the countries surveyed, Singapore had the highest job dissatisfaction rate with more than half (51%) of marketing professionals indicating a possible job departure in 2015.“It’s important to re-evaluate your professional goals for the year ahead, but professionals must think long-term and try to work with management to solve any problems before deciding to change jobs so they don’t find themselves in the same position a year later,” says Priya Bala, regional director at font.“The Christmas period is a great chance for employees to show commitment and drive by speaking with employers about their desired career direction. Managers and HR teams should also communicate with staff about development opportunities and company plans – if employees can see where their career is headed, they are more likely to stay committed and motivated to develop with the company.”While the results showcased underlying workplace dissatisfaction, marketers could be perked up with Christmas gifts and the ideal option being a cash bonus, as indicated by 33% of respondents. Marketers also shared that additional days off (26 %) and a company Christmas meal (24%) would be nice gifts to celebrate the holiday season.