A recent study conducted by Gradus Research in collaboration with Deloitte Ukraine found that Ukrainians are willing to change professions and undergo retraining, but the main motivator for this is an increase in salary. Gradus reports.
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The study presented at the IX Forum “Conductors of Change” on September 25 aimed to understand Ukrainians’ attitudes toward changing professions amid war and labor shortages. The results showed that despite the challenging circumstances, the employment rate in Ukraine remains high—79% of respondents are employed.
Interestingly, 73% of respondents have already experienced changing their professional activities, with this occurring most frequently among people aged 45 and older (79%). Younger individuals are less inclined to change jobs (58%), as are residents of eastern Ukraine (68%).
Regarding retraining, 31% of respondents undergo additional training at least once a year. Women and youth, in general, are more inclined to seek professional development.
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The study also addressed gender stereotypes in professions. 45% of women are considering acquiring “male” professions, especially among young people and women from western and northern regions, as well as Kyiv.
An important finding is the willingness of Ukrainians to work after reaching retirement age—73% of respondents expressed this desire.
“Ukrainians have adapted to life in wartime, actively working and ready to retrain,” comments Yevhenia Blyzniuk, sociologist and founder and director of Gradus Research. “However, 88% of respondents consider changing professions only if there is a salary increase. This means that the motivation for retraining largely depends on financial incentives.”
Oksana Boychenko, a partner at Deloitte Ukraine, notes: “Ukraine has significant potential for attracting new talent among women, older adults, and youth. However, there are certain barriers, such as low motivation for learning among the older generation and the reluctance of some women to take on ‘male’ professions. It’s also important to consider the level of English proficiency, which limits employment opportunities.”
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The study emphasizes the importance of government support for training and retraining programs, as well as the need to develop strategies aimed at unlocking the country’s labor potential.
More details about the study’s results can be found at the link.
