The majority of employed Canadians are emotionally connected to their work and most believe that a current or previous job has changed their life, according to a survey released today by Monster Canada. However, a large pool of employees haven’t yet identified a career path that they feel will lead to satisfaction at their current workplace.

The survey found 59 percent of working Canadians agree with the statement, “My job has a major impact on my life and how I feel.” However, 37 percent said, “My job is just something I do to make ends meet. I look for fulfilment in other areas of my life.”

Many working Canadians are still seeking more from their jobs, and among those still searching, the perception is that more money would make a significant difference. The survey found:

• 39 percent agree with the statement, “I will have to change employers in order to find the job that will change my life.”
• 48 percent say being paid “significantly more” than they are now would make their job life-changing.
• 20 percent say more flexibility/work-life balance. Interestingly, there was no difference between men and women in this respect.
• Canadians also say personal fulfillment (19 percent) and identifying new skills and new things they’re good at (13 percent) would make their job life-changing.

“For employees, knowing what aspects of employment bring you joy or satisfaction should play an important role in any job search and it’s important to be honest with yourself,” Sheryl Boswell of Monster Canada. “On the other hand, employers must also have effective talent acquisition and management strategies in place to seek out the best employees and help them hone their skills.”

This survey was conducted online in 2014 and included 801 employed Canadians.