A new study released by Bankrate, Inc. shows that although two out of three Americans polled know someone who has been laid off, eight out of ten feel "very" or "somewhat" secure in their own jobs.

Though older workers feel more insecure about their job with 32 percent of workers over 50 saying they feel "insecure" about their position compared to 13 percent of workers under age 34, they may be less at risk of losing their jobs. The poll reveals that in spite of the older workers' increased concerns, middle-aged employees have been on the receiving end of pink slips most often, with 16 percent of workers between 35 and 49 having been laid off in the past year compared to only 12 percent of workers between 50 and 64.

As anticipated by many experts, a significant number of employed Americans experienced cutbacks in the workplace. Forty-four percent of those polled said they received either: a pay cut; reduced hours or work days, a suspension of raises, bonuses, or 401(k) match, or a combination of the above.

In spite of the tenuous relationship between worker and employer due to the economic climate, most Americans wouldn't quit their job; 50 percent of those polled said that if they won the lottery, they would invest wisely but continue working until retirement while only 14 percent said they would quit after giving their two weeks' notice.

"The study underscores the strong work ethic and the optimistic spirit of many Americans," said Julie Bandy, editor in chief at Bankrate.com. "When it comes down to it, people just want to work and earn an honest living."

Additional findings from the poll include:

- When asked what's the most important reason for staying in their current jobs, 39 percent of survey respondents said for the income; 33 percent because they enjoy their work; 11 percent for the health benefits and 7 percent because they have a good boss;

- Networking was the predominant method employed Americans used to find their current jobs, with 33 percent choosing this response. Another 14 percent volunteered that they got it through a personal or family connection;

- Among other job search methods used for current employment: 9 percent of America's workers found their job through the newspaper classified section, 8 percent through a third party such as a headhunter, and 5 percent found the opportunity on their employer's Web site. Only 3 percent found their job through an online job board such as Monster or Careerbuilder;

- When asked which of four ways they would they choose to improve their jobs, 43 percent said they'd like a pay increase; 19 percent want better benefits, 16 percent desire more job security and 15 percent want more flexibility in their work schedule or the ability to work from home. Four percent volunteered that they would not choose any of these; they are completely satisfied with their jobs.