Career development, a pay rise and a better a work/life balance are the main reasons employees cite when making a mid-career change, according to a study by the global recruitment firm Hays Japan.  

The survey found that 33% of those who had made a mid-career change in the last 12 months primarily did so to further their career while others (29%) did so to gain a higher salary. Almost a quarter (22%) said they changed their career to specialise in a completely new field whereas 22% also said they wanted to improve their work/life balance. Just over a tenth (13%) stated they were keen to increase their benefits while 11% were looking for more challenging work. 

"Those people who have made a successful mid-career change tell us that one of the main benefits has been the expansion of their skills base. In a new company, they are given additional responsibilities and develop their skills in new directions. A job that is more suited to them or that allows them to do what they've always wanted to do is another common benefit cited,“ Managing Director of Hays  Japan Christine Wright said. 

"The trend of a mid-career change is taking hold across Japan's workplace. Companies are considering people with experience when they recruit and they recognise and value the ability of an experienced hire to hit the ground running and impact the bottom line from day one. As a result, more people are making a successful mid-career change," she added.

The survey was carried out in November 2011, quizzing 200 people who had recently changed jobs mid-career within the past 12 months while also questioning 200 people who have hired a mid-career changer within the past year, including hiring managers and HR managers.