Biggest career regrets

career regret

New data from CV-Library found that 75.7% of Brits would start an entire new career if they had the chance, with 44.5% admitting that they’ve made a career move in the past that they’ve regretted.

The survey, which explored the views of 1,200 UK workers, found that those aged between 35 and 44 were the most likely to want to start a new career, followed by 45-54 year olds (79.7%) and interestingly, 18-24 year olds (79.2%). When asked what their top five career regrets were, respondents cited the following:

1. Moving to a company that I didn’t end up liking (45.8%)
2. Not quitting my previous job sooner (29.4%)
3. Not going for a promotion when I should have (27.1%)
4. Starting out in my chosen career later in life (26.7%)
5. Leaving a company that I actually really liked (22.5%)

The study also found that 48.8% of respondents wish that they could start their own business, with those aged under 18 being the most likely to agree with this statement (62.5%). In addition, UK workers also stated that they wish they could: go back to college or university (38%), get a promotion (36.4%) and leave their job altogether (34.1%).

Next steps:

  • If you are unsure of what career choice is for you then take a look at our careers hub
  • No matter what career route you choose you need to work on your Young Professional Skills to get you there
  • Not sure what to do next? Visit our career choices zone

Discover Youth Friendly Employers

Email us at info@youthemployment.org.uk or call 01536 513388.

Build Skills + Confidence

Want a big boost in your life and work skills? Sign up to our free online Young Professional programme today!

Young Professional Programme

Get FREE skills training when you sign up. Get support with your personal confidence, positive attitude and coping with change!

Self Belief | Communication | Teamwork | Problem Solving | Self Management

FREE Online Courses

Boost your skills and careers confidence with FREE online courses. Complete them your own pace and get a certificate for your CV! Sign in as a Young Professional to get automatically enrolled.

Get Jobs + Experience

Find Opportunities

Looking for jobs and opportunities near you? Sign in as a Young Professional to see the latest jobs, apprenticeships, grad schemes, CV workshops, career events and early career opportunities in your area!

Latest Careers Help

Be Yourself

Mental Health

Stay Curious

Overcoming Barriers

For Students

Student Guides

For Teachers

Teacher Resources

Teachers - see how to use the Young Professional programme in your school or college, with lots of free teaching resources at your fingertips.