Are you in the right role?

Considering leaving your current employer can be a major decision, and we understand that it can feel overwhelming. It’s natural to feel a bit apprehensive about starting a new role, meeting new people, and facing new challenges. Additionally, searching for a new job can be a bit daunting. Although it may not always be wise to switch jobs frequently without a clear direction, there are situations where moving to a new employer can be incredibly advantageous. A new job can provide better work culture, improved benefits, and fresh opportunities that may align better with your career goals.

With so many opportunities available in the job market today, candidates have more choices than ever before. A recent survey by Monster.com found that around 96% of employees globally are considering starting a new job in 2023. If you’re also considering a change, the most important thing is to ensure you have the right motivations.

We want you to succeed in your career and find the best fit for you. To help you make a well-informed decision, here are some key factors to consider when deciding if it’s the right time to make a move.

1. Look at Opportunities for Growth

We all want to achieve our career aspirations, feel that we’re continuously growing and developing professionally. The best job opportunities are those that open the door to learning and growth. It’s important to ensure that your current employer is committed to helping you thrive, expand, and succeed in the years to come, so that you can achieve your career goals.Even if you’re relatively content with your current role, a lack of development opportunities could make you feel bored, restricted, or hindered. That’s why it’s crucial to ask yourself some important questions:

What are the “next steps” available in your current role?
What is the company’s approach to promotions?
Is there opportunity for more challenging roles within your company?
What opportunities are available to help you build transferrable skills?

If your employer doesn’t provide opportunities to gain certifications, attend conferences, or even explore potential upward mobility within the company, it might be time to consider other options.

2. Ask if the Culture Matches Your Needs

The term “company culture” has become a buzzword in recent times, and for good reason. According to several recent LinkedIn polls, over 80% of job seekers believe that a healthy work culture is essential for achieving success. When you first joined your company, you may have been content with the culture that was in place.

However, as you progress in your career, your priorities may shift. For instance, if you’re looking for remote or flexible working options to balance your new family responsibilities, you may need to find a company with a more adaptable and supportive culture. Sometimes, the culture within a business can also deteriorate over time.

Business leaders may stop actively investing in employee happiness and well-being, and new leaders and managers could create an uncomfortable working environment. When you’re not happy with the culture, it’s difficult to thrive in your role. As your career progresses, it’s essential to ensure that your workplace aligns with your values and goals.

3. Watch for Signs of Burnout

Employee well-being is essential for any workplace to function effectively. Unfortunately, some employers fail to prioritize this, which negatively impacts associates physically and/or mentally. Burnout has become increasingly common in recent years, resulting from inefficient work processes, lack of stability, and complex digital transformations.

If you constantly feel exhausted at work, find yourself taking more days off to care for yourself, or experience excessive anxiety or stress, you could be on the verge of burnout. Not only can burnout impact your health, but it can also affect your job performance, tarnishing your professional reputation.It’s crucial to speak to your employer about ways to tackle burnout before considering leaving. However, if they’re unable to provide the necessary support, it might be time to explore new job opportunities that prioritize employee well-being.

4. Consider Your Engagement and Motivation Levels

We all have days at work where we may wish we were spending time with our loved ones or on vacation instead. But just because you feel this way sometimes doesn’t necessarily mean you should jump ship and leave your employer. However, if you’re constantly feeling unmotivated or disinterested in your work, it could be a sign that you’re in the wrong place. Take a moment to reflect on why you go to work each day:

Are you gaining personal and/or professional growth and development?
Do you feel you have a sense of purpose?
Or are you simply trying to make a living?

If you don’t feel motivated to do your best work, it could have consequences down the line. If you’re no longer passionate about your work or the company, it might be time to explore other opportunities where you can feel more engaged and excited about your role.

5. Are You Using Your Full Potential

It’s not uncommon for a job to turn out differently than we anticipated, even when the job description seems clear. As time goes on, your position may evolve to the point where you’re doing more of the tasks you dislike and fewer of the tasks that motivate and inspire you. While it’s not necessary to love every aspect of your job, you should feel you have opportunities to showcase your skills and realize your full potential. If your current employer isn’t making use of your talents, you may begin to feel dissatisfied and restless.

Before considering leaving your job, it’s worth talking to your manager about opportunities to take on new challenges or do more of what you enjoy. However, if you feel like you’re stuck in a rut with no options for growth, it may be time to consider a change.

6. Consider the Feedback Experience

To thrive in any role, it’s essential to receive regular feedback and guidance from your managers and supervisors. This feedback should help you improve your skills and drive your professional growth. Equally important is feeling acknowledged for your hard work. If your efforts go unnoticed, and your leaders fail to provide recognition and rewards, you may begin to feel unfulfilled in your job.

Don’t settle for feeling like an afterthought. You can discuss your concerns with your boss or HR team and work towards solutions. However, if you find yourself continually overlooked and underappreciated, it may be time to consider finding a role where your contributions are valued and recognized. Remember, feeling like a valued and integral part of a team can greatly impact your overall job satisfaction and motivation.

Is it Time to Switch Employers?

Switching to a different role can be a big decision, but it can also lead to exciting opportunities for growth and development. If you’re considering a change, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@thablackdiamondagency.com or 919-813-2454 to help you find the perfect fit. From salary and benefits to a supportive work environment, we’ll work with you to identify your priorities and find a role that aligns with your professional goals.