A YouGov survey of 2,100 employees, commissioned by Standard Life, reveals that workers expect to put in the equivalent of around 30,000 hours on the job before they become completely comfortable with their skills.

In addition, the research found that 85 per cent wanted to continue working on a part-time basis when they reach retirement age and one-third wishing to keep a full-time position.

John Lawson, head of Standard Life’s pension policy, comments: ‘Having worked over 30,000 hours before feeling confident and until age 50 to feel fulfilled, it stands to reason that people will choose to continue to do a job that they enjoy and are good at.’

Previous research from business consultancy firm The Work Foundation claimed that 40 per cent of workers believe they are over-skilled for their roles, while 65 per cent said their company lacks the flexibility to make the most of their talents.

Also see: Why employers should encourage continuous learning for their workers – Alan Price explains why an environment of learning is a necessity to help build and grow an organisation.