No matter whether you’ve been in your job for 5 months or 5 years, sometimes you just know when it’s time for a change. However, knowing when to take the leap isn’t always as clear. In some circumstances, it’s appropriate to make a quick exit. In others, it’s worth biding your time. We’ve put together a guide to help you decide when the best time to make a career change is.
Reasons Why You Might Want To Change Career
There are many reasons that someone might want to change their job. It’s important to distinguish whether the reason you want to make the move is a good one. Moving career with flimsy or shallow motivations looks bad to potential employers, and could mean you end up regretting the decision. The following is a list of good reasons to make a career change:
You Want Challenge & Progression
It would be expected that many people want to change their job to earn more money. However, most employers would rather hear that a jobseeker looking to change roles wants to learn more and progress in their role. This should translate naturally into a higher wage. Potential employees that are motivated and keen to progress usually have a better time changing jobs. This is because they are goal-oriented, which can make it easier to find a new position.
You Need A Better Cultural Fit
Every workplace is different, and with that will come a different culture. We spend the majority of our time at work. So, if the cultural fit isn’t right, it could have a serious impact on your mood and general satisfaction in life. If the company you work for now pushes for regular overtime and 24/7 availability when you’ve just started a family, you may want to find a new job that allows you more flexibility.
You’re Relocating (For Good Reasons)
It may surprise you how often people apply for jobs that would require the employer to trust that their new hire would relocate without a convincing reason. Most employers who are taking on new staff would consider it a huge risk to employ someone who is relocating ‘just because’. Ideally, you would have already moved and be living in the area, be moving to live closer to a relative or partner, or relocating back to somewhere you’ve lived before. You may have more trouble convincing a potential employer to hire you if you’re moving for other reasons.
***
When You Should Stay In Your Job
Some people are prone to making rash changes. When it comes to something as important as your career, decisions should never be taken lightly. Make sure you consider the following before you begin searching for local jobs:
Disagreements In The Workplace
Have you fallen out with a coworker? Relationships aren’t always perfect in the workplace, especially when you work in high-stress environments. If your coworker relationships are making you feel like leaving your job, consider how long this might last for. Disagreements can feel very dramatic, but they often fizzle out over time. If not, a lot of problems can be repaired after making an effort to talk though the problem. It’s usually best to discuss with management or HR first to see if steps can be taken to resolve this issue before moving on to a new job.
You’ve Been In Your Job For Less Than A Year
This piece of advice doesn’t apply to everyone. If you have a good reason to leave a job that you haven’t been in for long, then it’s fine to go ahead and do so. However, if you have a habit of hopping from job to job with little growth or change, you could be a red flag to potential employers. Make sure you’re able to explain your short tenure if you’re asked. When someone ‘job hops’ for the right reasons, this can make them appear ambitious and proactive.
A Promotion Is On The Horizon
If you know you’re working towards a promotion and you’re tempted to leave your role, have a serious think about the impact that will have. If you’re changing to a like-for-like role, there’s no guarantee a promotion will be available in your new job. Or, if a promotion is available it could be delayed by several months. You would be better off making a career change if you’re starting your new role in a higher position.
You’re Burned Out
When you feel burned out, leaving your job can be tempting. However, many times burnout can be resolved by taking some time off. If you return from a week’s holiday and still can’t shake the feeling of burnout, search for a new job that has a better work life balance.
Someone Else Has Told You To Quit
No matter who has told you to quit your job, it doesn’t matter what they say. Your career choices need to be made by you, without being influenced by others. You can have discussions with trusted friends and family members about your career, but never allow someone else to tell you what decisions to make.
If It’s Time For A Career Change, Choose Search4Local Jobs
When the time comes to start looking for a new job, look no further than us. We provide a collection of curated listing from verified employers. This means that every application that you make counts, so you’re sure to find the perfect job here.