Quitting your job is a big decision, even when you already have your next job lined up. You’re leaving the safety of the familiar and throwing yourself into something completely new. It can be hard to decide when it is the right time to make the leap.
Time to Leave your Job
So if you’re wondering whether it’s time for you to move on, ask yourself these questions:
Are you happy in your current job?
If you’re deliriously excited to go into work every day, then you should probably stay put. And if the thought of going to work fills you with dread, then it’s probably time to move on.
Those extremes are easy enough to work out, but what if you’re moderately happy? What if you’re comfortable where you are? Then you need to ask yourself some more questions.
Do you have job satisfaction?
Do you enjoy the work that you do, and do you feel a sense of pride when you complete a piece of work?
If you do, then at least you know you’re in the right role, even if your current company isn’t quite the best place for you and your career development. If you don’t, then perhaps a change of role is in order.
Do you feel valued and important in your current job?
Do you feel like the work you are doing is important to the successful running of the company, in either a small or large way? Do you feel like your contribution to the company is recognised and appreciated?
We all need to feel like we’re doing something worthwhile, and we need to feel respected for the work that we do, otherwise feelings of resentment are going to build up pretty quickly, and soon you won’t be enjoying your job at all.
Are you challenged by your work?
If you’ve been at a company for a long time, you can often start to feel like your work is no longer a challenge – you can do it on autopilot, and you become bored. Of course, if you have received more responsibility and promotions over time then the work probably continues to be interesting and challenging to you.
However, if you want to learn new things and grow your skills, and you no longer feel that your current role offers you that opportunity, then you should speak to your boss, or start looking for a new opportunity.
Do you enjoy working with your colleagues?
The culture of a company is just as important as the work you’re doing. If you’re in your dream role, but have a bullying boss, then it’s not going to be a great experience. Similarly, work that perhaps isn’t the most stimulating can be made far more enjoyable by working with a good group of people.
So ask yourself – if you left your job, would you miss your colleagues?
Are you earning the money you need?
Happiness should always be rated above money, of course, but you’re not going to be very happy if your job doesn’t pay you enough to cover your mortgage. Find out if your current salary matches up with the national average for your job role. If it doesn’t, and if you’re struggling financially, then either ask for a pay rise or start looking for a better paid job.
If you decide that you’re ready to start looking for a new job, why not check out our current vacancies here? You can also register with us here.
