It’s a new year and you’ve probably reflected on last year and made resolutions for 2017, and that may include a career change.
But before you jump ship and head for greener pastures, just stop and ask yourself these few questions…
What is wrong with my current job?
It’s important to know exactly why you’re looking to leave your current role. Is it the workload, the commute, the salary or the company culture?
If the travel to your current job is getting you down, taking a great role with a similar commute is likely to see you looking again this time next year – if not earlier.
If your current workload is excessive, moving to an employer who expects the same output may be appealing if it offers a higher salary, but if money wasn’t your main motivation for leaving, it probably won’t make up for the workload.
Are you uncomfortable with the company culture?
If so, is it specific to your organisation or is it industry wide? You could find yourself leaving great benefits with your current job but ending up in a similar unhappy situation.
Or maybe there’s nothing wrong with your current role and you’ve just been enticed by something new.
What are my long-term prospects with my current employer?
You’ve found a position that pays more than you’re currently getting, but are your future earnings better where you are now?
Switching jobs may be see your take-home pay increase in the short-term, but will the new employer always be so generous?
Would you be leaving certain career progression for a role with little scope for advancement?
It’s important to consider not only your current position, but also your long-term prospects.
A new employer can easily offer extra money in the short-term, but do the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile move?
Are you being honest with yourself?
You may have been denied a promotion or not been given the responsibility you feel you deserve and are unhappy about it.
Request feedback about the situation and your performance from someone you trust as there may be a good reason for the decision.
Maybe you need a little more time to consolidate skills and knowledge.
Perhaps your technical skills are superior but you lack the interpersonal skills required for a management role, or maybe you are ready but there was simply a more experienced and qualified candidate.
Make sure that you’re honest with yourself and where you stand as leaving your employer for a more senior role before you’re ready could be a disastrous career move.
At the end of the day you alone are responsible for your career choices.
If you’ve given good thought to a change and feel the time is right then jump in with both feet and make the move.
