Commuting Safety Important for Job Hunters

The latest in a series of surveys by The New York Times Job Market found that 74% of those looking for jobs valued a secure trip to work the highest.

In addition to security,

• almost 70% mentioned the length of the commute as an important factor in their job searches,
• close to 60% pointed to cost factors,
• while 56% gave the stress of the commute careful consideration

In addition, the survey found that:

• some 86% of job seekers would consider a longer commute – an average of 15 minutes more each way – if they received a higher salary,
• slightly less would do it for better growth opportunities,
• flexible scheduling, might persuade 82%,
• almost 80% would consider a longer commute if the new job promised better or more comprehensive benefits coverage, and
• some 72% would do it for more vacation time

In the New York metropolitan area, 56% of job seekers expect to commute to their next jobs by car, 26% expect to use the subway, 11% anticipate using the bus or train, and 8% plan to walk.

The New York Times Job Market, the Times’ recruitment services unit, periodically surveys New York area employers and job seekers.