When is the Time to Switch Jobs?
Maintaining the same job for long periods, say, 20-25 years up until retirement used to be a common practice; but these days, when you take a look at resumes, it’s hard to find people who have been in the same company for that long. Every career-minded professional craves new opportunities, new challenges and a better chance at maximizing potentials. Nevertheless, leaving a current job could be quite challenging and frightening for even the most seasoned professionals. Several questions and doubts come to mind, like, is the grass really greener on the other side? How do I cope with changing my daily routine and habits? But sometimes, it is imperative to look beyond the trauma of leaving a familiar environment, co-workers, and friends behind, because as challenging as leaving could be, staying could be worse. Sometimes, it is also important for your health, safety and emotional well being to switch jobs.
It is time to throw in the towel and move on, when you’ve done all you can to make your current job work but it just doesn’t seem to be working no matter how hard you try. Your job consumes way too much of time, leaving you with less time for leisure, family or personal improvement and at the end of the day you find out that you are miserable, and the only reason you are clinging on to the job is because of the paycheck. The emolument may be great, but when you are constantly living on the edge, it may begin to have serious and negative impacts on your physical and mental wellbeing.
Another reason why you should consider taking the plunge is when there have been major changes in your life. Assuming you get married to someone who lives or works in another state, there is a need to spend more time with your family, and your current job may not avail you that opportunity. There is a need to carry your employer along and see if there are opportunities for a change in duties to accommodate the changes in your life. If, however, your employer is being nonchalant or uncooperative, it may be easier to endure the stress of a job switch than to continue to put up with an employer who doesn't respect the need for a healthy and balances work-life, or expects you to put your job before personal and family commitments.
Getting a better job offer is another good reason to change your job. In a situation where the job you are shifting to is much more promising and offers better opportunity to realize your full potential than your current job, then you should waste no time in making that change.
As an insider, it is easier to spot it when your employer is about to fail. Poor sales figures, huge number of lay-offs, reduction in customer base and declining markets are some of the signs that your company may be in distress and about to fail. Your employer might deny it but this insight gives you the opportunity to strategize and plan your exit so that you are not caught unawares when your company suddenly goes under. It’s wiser to move as soon as you can confirm that your employer is really in distress.
The attitude of your boss and co-workers should also be considered carefully in making job switch decisions. If your co-workers are hostile, or the relationship between you and your boss has been damaged beyond repair, that’s a great justification to change jobs. Working in an environment where you are unhappy or uncomfortable affects your productivity as well as other aspects of your life.
