Two-fifths (39 per cent) of Canadian women say they’ve considered quitting their job due to stress or burnout, compared to 25 per cent of men, according to a new survey by Pollara Strategic Insights on behalf of the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and Enterprise Canada.
The survey, which polled more than 1,000 employees, found women (38 per cent) were more likely than men (30 per cent) to occasionally consider quitting work.
Read: Survey finds a third of Canadian employees currently experiencing burnout
Eighty per cent of mothers with children aged 13 and younger said they’ve considered quitting their job, compared to 63 per cent of fathers. Two-fifths (41 per cent) of working mothers and 24 per cent of working fathers said they’ve left a job due to childcare responsibilities. Indeed, a third (35 per cent) of working moms said it’s difficult to arrange for childcare and 17 per cent said they work hours that allow them to care for their children, compared to just six per cent of working dads.
When asked about the most important considerations, beyond salary, in moving to a senior role, a quarter (25 per cent) of women and 20 per cent of men cited flexible hours and work location, followed by employer recognition (22 per cent compared to 14 per cent) and the ability to take allotted vacation time (21 per cent compared to 16 per cent).
“This research indicates that significant segments of Canada’s workforce are struggling, which could have serious ramifications for the entire economy,” said Lesli Martin, senior vice-president at Pollara, in a press release. “Addressing the stresses that are impacting career decisions will be crucial in shaping Canada’s workplace evolution.”
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