If you have been following the news you may have heard the term “great resignation.” Many people are leaving or considering leaving their jobs now for a multitude of reasons. If you are an employee there has not been a time in recent history that it has been such a great time to try to switch jobs. There are plenty of positions open and many companies have increased both pay and benefits to attract more applicants. If you are struggling with the decision to leave your job and apply elsewhere these tips may help.
Consider why you are unhappy in your current role
Throughout the covid-19 pandemic, many people have thought more existentially about their job with questions about whether their job was providing them with meaning, whether they wanted to spend so much time at work versus time with family and whether or not they’d change course if they were to get sick. These thoughts are good in that they make you prioritize what’s important to you and how your career fits into what you want out of life. I encourage you to think deeply about this to figure out what it is that is making you want to switch roles. This is going to be different for everybody, so take some time and get some clarity. Once you are sure of your reasoning and priorities you will be better able to focus on finding a job or career that is better aligned with your values.
Don’t just consider the salary
Many people believe that salary is the biggest factor in why people stay or leave jobs. It is true that in this job market it can be fairly easy to leave jobs to get a higher paycheck elsewhere. However, it is also important to realize that pay is not the only reason for working. Some people are solely motivated by money but others are looking for structure, meaning, and to make a difference in other people’s lives. Did you know that studies have shown that people are more likely to leave a job due to a bad relationship with their manager than due to compensation? This speaks to the fact that many people want to feel comfortable with their job and with their boss regardless of the pay. If your relationship with your manager is bad it’s important to consider the factors that are involved in the relationship. Some managers are bad and are promoted for their job-related success and not because they are good at or even interested in managing others. Therefore, it can help to examine that relationship and get a good feel for your next manager in interviews.
Consider the flexibility of the job
The covid-19 pandemic has caused a lot of people to want more flexibility in their work arrangements. Some people have left where their office is located and will only consider staying with their jobs if they can work remotely. Others would consider it an enticing benefit to work part-time from home or work a flexible schedule so they can avoid spending a lot of time in rush hour traffic. Some people have realized that they can be more productive working at home with the perk of spending more time with their family and pets. Depending on your career and because there is a shortage of workers, think about how much flexible schedule and remote work is important to you. Make sure to discuss this with your potential employer or consider if other benefits of the job may outweigh working in an office. On the other hand, maybe you thrive working in an office and want to consider jobs that only require in-person work. Although many people have enjoyed working from home, others have struggled with the isolation or lack of space if they live in an apartment or with roommates. The key is to do what works best for you to be successful.
Many people are considering switching jobs or careers. If you are contemplating such a decision, reflect on your current role and what you’d like to change, consider other factors besides salary and the flexibility of a new role. If you are struggling with your current job or steps to successfully find a new role, career counseling can help. Contact me today for a free consultation.