Hays surveyed over 300 professionals and employers in Northern Ireland among over 5,100 UK-wide as part of its Salary and Recruiting Trends 2026 guide.
It found that only 36% of those surveyed in NI feel positive about their career prospects for next year, down from 45% a year ago.
And at 52%, just over half are uncertain, while 12% feel negative about what 2026 might hold.
Hays said it was the lowest level of career optimism since the start of the pandemic in 2020, when just 37% of workers UK-wide said they felt positive about their future.
News Catch Up – Friday 19 December
And because of their dissatisfaction, workers were plotting a move, with 61% in Northern Ireland planning a change, up from 52% in NI last year.
In addition, 53% of professionals here believe there’s no room for them to progress their career with their current employer.
Hays warned that if workers act on their negativity, employers will face growing challenges with talent retention.
Employers cited obstacles in holding onto staff including an inability to match salary expectations, a competitive job market, high workloads and burnout and a lack of clear opportunities.
And professionals were also looking beyond salary when looking at new jobs, Hays said.
They were on the hunt for a positive work atmosphere, followed by a good benefits package and career development opportunities.
And around half said they would even accept a lower-paid role in order to achieve better work-life balance.
Mark Wade, director of Hays in Northern Ireland, said: “It’s clear that a lot of people in Northern Ireland are not feeling particularly confident about their careers and changes announced in the recent Budget may add further pressures to the job market, perhaps leading some higher earners to seek a change of job in early 2026.
Mark Wade, director of Hays in Northern Ireland
“While our survey findings indicate many professionals feel stuck and don’t see opportunities for progression with their current employers, we are also seeing further evidence that there has been a change in what is important to people when it comes to their job and career.
“It is no longer simply about salary for many people – purpose, balance and belonging are driving career decisions and employers need to recognise this “emotional economy” of work if they want to hold on to their best people and attract fresh talent.
“Being transparent and creating an attractive culture is more important than ever.”
And he said that if confidence bounces back, we could see another surge of in the ‘Great Resignation,’ a pandemic-era trend which saw many people move jobs.
Mr Wade said: “For professionals, this is a good time to take control of their careers, seek development opportunities and redefine what success looks like.”