When is it Time to Move Jobs?
Posted by Nilam Modhwadia, Graduate Recruitment Consultant on Saturday, November 25, 2023
Moving jobs is a big decision that will affect both your career and general well-being. Candidates frequently find themselves in a situation where they are unsure about whether to pursue new opportunities or remain in their existing role. Moving jobs is a personal and subjective decision that depends on numerous factors. Here are definitely signs that can indicate it might be time to consider a job change.
Financial Reasons
A lack of financial compensation is the main reason why people choose to leave companies. A report from Adzuna way back in 2015 suggested that, over half of Britain’s employees (52%) are unhappy with their salaries. Since then there has been an increase in the cost-of-living so it seems reasonable that you should regularly assess your market value as it is vital to ensure that you are being adequately compensated for your contributions.
Often, moving jobs is the best way to get a pay rise you may not otherwise receive. The most recent Census Data appeared to demonstrate that “Average earnings growth is consistently higher for workers who have changed jobs”. It is however, important to evaluate whether this move will reap you financial rewards in the long term or the short term only. Clearly there is a difference between skipping between the same job for a pay rise and receiving recognition and career progression at the same time as an increased salary & package.
Lack of Career Growth
Promotions are not solely about money. If you feel like there is no room for you to grow in your role or company, it is probably time to look at moving on. Whether this has to do with position, status, responsibilities or benefits, a lack of career development can make your role seem mundane and undervalued. A change of job, does not always prove to be worthwhile, especially if your new role does not align with your true skills and passions. For example, if you like to work independently and do not like to oversee and manage others’ work, it is probably not the best idea to become a people manager even if management pays a bit more; the best role is one you most enjoy & the money should follow – the reverse of this can often lead to problems.
Lack of Job Satisfaction
Although everyone loves a lie-in, if you are finding yourself consistently dreading Monday mornings and feeling unfulfilled by the end of the week, it may be sign that your current job is no longer aligning with your ambitions. Long-term professional success and overall contentment depends heavily on job satisfaction. Examine whether your present job enables you to leverage your passions and strengths; if not, think about looking for a job that better fits your skills and interests.
Dissatisfying Work Environment
Your well-being and job satisfaction may be adversely affected by a toxic work environment that is marked by unhealthy relationships, excessive stress, or a lack of support. Whether that’s with strained relationships with your colleagues or senior management, values misalignment can lead to dissatisfaction and a sense of disconnection.
Company Instability
It may be cause for concern if your current employer is dealing with issues like financial strain, organisational instability, or other problems that could endanger your job security. Although it is impossible to predict the future totally accurately, if there are signs that things are not looking too good in terms of company workload or key members of the team are leaving, it could be a good idea to start exploring your options before problems escalate.
The first step to a more rewarding and meaningful job is recognising why you are unhappy in the first place. Be proactive in looking for possibilities that fit with your values and aspirations, analyse your career and personal goals, and follow your instincts. Moving jobs can be an unnerving idea, but quite quickly it can also lead to growth, new experiences, and a really promising new career path.
At Maxim Recruitment, we understand how daunting it can be to move jobs and we can help make this transition smoother. From CV writing tips, interview preparation, to matching yourself with an employer that suits your skills and experience, well as your salary expectations, we are here to help.
To find out more on how Maxim Recruitment can help make your transition easier, feel free to check out the full range of live vacancies on our website and don’t hesitate to get in touch with your updated CV if you would like to have a confidential conversation.
Nilam is a Graduate Recruitment Consultant based in the Maxim head office in Leicester, Leicestershire. She supports the team with researching, headhunting, shortlisting, and interviewing valuable construction industry candidates, to place them in premium construction jobs with our market-leading UK and international clients.