Survey on 'Cross-Industry Transitions' for Middle-Aged Workers: 80% Interested in Switching Sectors for Growth Industries and Higher Pay

En Japan Inc. (Headquarters: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo; Chairman and President: Michikatsu Ochi) conducted a survey on 'Cross-Industry Transition' among 1,242 users aged 35 and older on its career site 'Mid-tenshoku'. The survey defines switching to a different industry as a 'Cross-Industry Transition'.

### Key Findings - **80% of middle-aged professionals are interested in cross-industry transitions.** Among them, 30% also wish to change their job functions, not just the industry. - **Manufacturing is the most popular destination sector.** The 'Infrastructure, Education, and Government' sectors saw higher interest as the age of respondents increased (60s: 23%). - **The top reason for interest is 'the desire to work in growth industries or sectors with high salary levels' (41%).** This is followed by 'expanding career horizons' (38%). - **The biggest concern is 'whether they will pass the selection process' (68%).** - **Over half of respondents have experienced cross-industry transitions.** Common positive outcomes included 'widening the scope of work' and 'honing knowledge and skills'.

### Detailed Insights When asked about specific industry interests, 'Manufacturing' ranked first at 22%, followed by 'Infrastructure, Education, and Government' at 20%. The preference for public-interest work among the middle-senior and senior layers was notable. In terms of job functions, 'Administrative/Management' (22%) and 'Business/Strategic Planning' (15%) were highly sought after.

Specific reasons for interest included concerns about salary stagnation after re-employment and the desire to build versatile skills in an uncertain era. Many respondents emphasized the need to adapt to a changing world by acquiring new expertise.