Sunday Star-Times

Spreading Harmoney

Aussie expansion for peer-to-peer lender

- RACHEL CLAYTON

The majority of New Zealanders looking for a new job are fed up with their industry and want a complete career change.

Olivia Loftus is one of them. The 24-year-old sales coordinato­r doesn’t feel fulfilled in her current role and there’s limited room to move up in the company.

Loftus wants to help people, not sell ad space.

And she’s not alone. According to a Seek study, 46 per cent of Kiwi workers are thinking of applying for a new job in 2017 and the majority want to ditch the sector they’re in.

‘‘When we looked at why people want to change their job, 38 per cent said for a total career change, while 30 per cent said career

"When we looked at why people want to change their job, 38 per cent said for a total career change." Seek New Zealand general manager Janet Faulding.

progressio­n was their main motivator,’’ said Seek New Zealand general manager Janet Faulding.

Loftus studied developmen­t and Pacific studies at university but like many arts graduates found it hard to land a job in her specified field.

But it’s time for a change, a radical change, into law enforcemen­t.

‘‘I want to become a policewoma­n,’’ she said. ‘‘I’m just not stimulated enough in my current role. I want to help people.’’

Almost half of those wanting a career change are considerin­g further education to remain relevant.

But Loftus doesn’t fall into that category, ‘‘I don’t want to study more - it’s just extra time spent being poor.’’

Although she thinks joining the police force would be rewarding, she’s not particular­ly welded to the role and can see herself changing careers again.

‘‘I’m open to anything that comes up. It’s not that I don’t enjoy my job, I just want something different.’’

 ??  ?? The main reason Kiwis want a career change is for a salary boost.
The main reason Kiwis want a career change is for a salary boost.

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