Thinking of Changing Jobs? Wait Just a Minute.

At this place in my career, I really enjoy the phone calls and appointment requests I receive from former students, clients, and colleagues asking for help in thinking through various professional situations. I’ve had many successes and failures, so if I can be a sounding board to help someone succeed, I enjoy the opportunity. 

The most common conversations I have lately are about changing careers or moving jobs. Here are just a few tips I share with people that you may also find helpful.

1.      Don’t run away. Run toward something. Many people who are dissatisfied with their jobs begin an employment search to get away from a bad culture, a difficult boss, or boring work. However, since they are running away, they jump at the first opportunity without thinking carefully about what they really want, and then they end up searching again months later. I recommend an exercise to all my clients called Love It/Hate It. For one or two weeks, write down everything you love (or really like) and everything you hate (or really dislike) about your work. You will then have a list that will give you a better understanding of what is making you dissatisfied, and you will also know what to avoid in your next role.

2.      Get clear on what you want. It is difficult to find the right job if you don’t know what you want. Using the exercise above, look at what you love or like about your current job. If there is nothing, then you probably need to change industries or careers. Ask other people about their work and see if anything resonates. Look at your personal life and establish what you really want out of your work and make a list of non-negotiables to keep your career search focused. I also recommend thinking back to a time when you were highly energized and satisfied at work and determining what specifically was engaging. Clarity in your direction is the best way to get there.

3.      Know when enough is enough. I have a friend who has been telling me stories about her demeaning boss for over two years. During the holiday, we had lunch, and she told me that I wouldn’t believe what he did now. I awaited another shocking story, but this time she said that he had the nerve to invite her entire team out to lunch. I looked at her and said, “Okay, if your boss offering you a free meal is so upsetting, you are definitely done. Let’s talk about how we can find you another job.” If you get to the point where people at work are sending your emotions into orbit frequently or your mental health is suffering due to your job, don’t wait. Move on as quickly as possible.

4.      Make people (culture) a priority. There are many job openings now, and some have enticing salaries. However, money can make a miserable culture only slightly less painful. Culture is “the way we do things around here,” but it is made up of people. When people complain about culture, what they really mean is the people. Unfortunately, bad bosses and backstabbing coworkers can be found in just about any environment, so take time to get to know the people. I have found that if I have a boss whom I respect and who empowers me, along with coworkers who are collaborative and driven to succeed, I enjoy my work. What factors are important to you? Don’t be mesmerized by dollar signs and ignore red flags with the people during the interview process.

5.      Determine what skills you might need. The pandemic has led many of us to reevaluate our lives. Some are choosing to go back to school to advance their education, learn new skills, or become teachers. A few nurses I have met are deciding they want to give up bedside care and pursue their MSN so they can teach or lead. The workforce is changing rapidly. As employees, we must be constantly learning and growing if we want to be offered the best opportunities. Increase your skills, and it will pay off.

The great resignation, or reshuffle, as we are hearing it called, means that it is an employee-driven market. Make the most of this opportunity but think carefully before you do.