When companies know what make their employees (or their competitors employees) unhappy, there is an opportunity for them to do a better job at attracting and retaining the best talent. 

According to Resume Now’s International Career Regrets Survey two-thirds (66%) of workers across the U.S., UK, France, and Germany regret their career choices. the most common regrets include: 

• 60% regret not asking for a pay raise. 
• 59% wish they had prioritized work-life balance—especially Millennials and Gen Z. 
• 58% regret staying at a job too long or not negotiating salaries. 
• 53% wish they had spoken up more in meetings. 
• 50% regret their overall career choice. 

Career dissatisfaction, while challenging, presents a unique opportunity for companies looking to attract top talent. Many professionals are feeling stuck in roles that no longer align with their ambitions, making them more open to new opportunities. Smart employers can tap into this by offering roles that speak to what these individuals truly want—growth, purpose, and alignment with their values.

But it’s not just about bringing in fresh talent. Organizations should also look inward and create opportunities for their existing employees. Encouraging lateral moves, offering mentorship, and investing in upskilling can help retain valuable team members who might otherwise look elsewhere. Providing clear pathways for internal career growth fosters a culture where employees feel valued and empowered to evolve within the organization.

Ultimately, these insights are a wake-up call for companies to rethink how they attract, engage, and retain talent. By addressing career regrets and focusing on meaningful growth opportunities, employers can position themselves as the place where professionals can turn their career aspirations into reality.