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Most German Workers Open to Switching Jobs in 2026 Despite High Satisfaction, Survey Finds

Pay pressures dominate motivations as advertised vacancies fall.

Overview

  • An Indeed survey of 1,000 employees finds 57.7% can imagine changing jobs this year, up nearly three points from the prior year.
  • About 70% report being satisfied in their current role, yet a third of those considering a move hope to switch by mid‑2026.
  • Higher salary is the top driver at 41%, followed by greater appreciation at 32% and better internal development at 30%, with 26% citing poor leadership or rigid work conditions such as no home office.
  • Despite reported staff shortages at 71% of workplaces, 20% fear losing their job this year, and more than half of that group attribute the concern to the broader economy.
  • Recruiting has cooled with fewer postings, Stepstone says under‑30 academics need roughly 40 applications for one interview, and SAP plans ongoing 1–2% annual reductions with job protection in place until 2026 and severance offers.