TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Many office workers in Taiwan appreciate the stability and benefits of their jobs. However, the repetitive nature of day-to-day work may not appeal to everyone. A recent survey by a local job bank found that Taiwanese office workers typically stay in their positions for 12 to 15 months on average.
Taiwanese office worker Ms. Chen explained, "As I grew older, my mindset shifted from feeling obligated to stay for a year or until receiving the yearly bonus, to leaving as soon as possible if the job doesn't align with my preferences."
While quit rates have decreased since the COVID-19 pandemic, workers in Taiwan still feel motivated to switch jobs due to high living costs, stagnant wages, and long hours.
According to data from PricewaterhouseCoopers International Ltd., around 26% of the 54,000 office workers polled across 46 countries are actively looking for new job opportunities within a year, up from 19% the previous year.
"With the reopening of borders post-pandemic, the service industry has experienced significant expansion, offering ample job opportunities for individuals within the sector," local job bank spokesperson Yang Tsung-pin said.
Low wages remain a concern for Taiwanese businesses, with reports showing that the percentage of workers seeking pay raises has risen from 35% to 42% this year.
Additionally, most office workers (68%) in Taiwan earn below-average incomes, as high-paying jobs are mostly found in the tech and communications manufacturing industries, not the service sector. As labor shortages worsen due to low birth rates, Taiwanese businesses must provide stronger incentives to retain employees and overcome the challenges.
