Guidance on making a career change
Deciding to quit your job can be one of the toughest decisions you’ll ever make. Change can be scary, especially when it means leaving behind the people and processes you know, to move on into a new strange environment with people you’ve never met. However, when work life is making you miserable, quitting your job may well be the very best thing you ever did!
Why do you want to quit?
Many people decide to quit having found an alternative position first, and this is usually the most sensible route. Employers seem more willing to take on those who are already employed, and you’ll have a steady stream of income uninterrupted by the job change. However, sometimes making the decision to quit can also mean leaving behind the role itself. It might even be time to look at some new, exciting training courses and take an entirely different career path!
There are lots of reasons why you might be considering a new job or a career change. One of the most common reasons is down to the lack of promotions available, or even just a chance at taking on more responsibility and earning more money. If you feel like you’re stuck in a job that’s going nowhere and it feels like a daily grind, then you’re not alone. But there are lots of things you can do to change that, and it may not even mean you have to leave the company.
Should you approach your manager?
Consider talking to your manager to see if there is anything available. Making your boss aware that you’re willing and able to take on more responsibility will often help your situation. One of the reasons why you might be overlooked for promotion is because you are great at your job and continue to perform consistently every day.
A manager will happily settle for a great worker to continue churning out fantastic results, and unless you make them aware of your career goals you could just end up continuing on the same path. A promotion may be available in another department or at another branch. You won’t know unless you ask!
At the end of the day, if you’re unhappy about your pay, working conditions, or anything else at work, then don’t be afraid to speak with your manager. Remember to remain calm, professional, and keep the conversation constructive at all times. Consider a few possible solutions that you can present during the meeting as this will come across more positive and will yield greater results.
Do you have a good work-life balance?
Working hard in a career and striving for success can sometimes have a negative impact on our lives outside of work. Paying the bills is important, but having the right amount of leisure time for yourself is just as vital if you want to keep your sanity.
If you’re unhappy with your current position as it’s affecting your work-life balance negatively, then maybe now is a good time to consider a career change. You might just find another job is out there for you that has better hours for the same pay; is closer to home; or is a lot less stressful.
Would you like some help deciding upon a career change?
Our recruitment and careers experts have taken many of these worries and considerations into account when producing articles for this section on career change. We hope these guides prove useful in helping you decide how to shape your future. Good luck!