Deciding to move on from your current position is never an easy choice, but it's sometimes a necessary step towards achieving your ultimate career goals. But before you make the leap, there are a few critical things we think you should consider
Firstly, take a step back to assess your current situation, and to understand your career goals.
Begin by exploring the reasons why you want to leave your current job. Are you looking for new challenges because you feel you've outgrown your current role? Are you looking for a healthier work culture, better leadership, or improved work-life balance?
Maybe you're motivated by the pursuit of higher compensation, more meaningful work, or opportunities for advancement that seem limited or non-existent in your current position.
Identifying the specific factors that contribute to your dissatisfaction is crucial in ensuring that your next move brings you closer to your ideal work environment and job role.
Tldr: Understanding your motivations will guide you towards what to look for next. Ask yourself: Why do I want to leave? What am I looking for in my next role that I don't have now?
Once you've pinpointed your reasons for wanting to leave, the next step is to define what you're looking for in a new position.
Compare and align your career objectives with your personal values and needs.
Consider what aspects of a job are most important to you—is it creativity, autonomy, the ability to make an impact, or perhaps a more collaborative team environment?
Are there specific industries, company cultures, or roles that align more closely with your professional goals and personal ethos?
Think about the skills you want to develop and the type of work that fulfills you. Having an idea of your ideal role will help you narrow down your search and target positions that match what you're looking for.
With that said, you also need to ask yourself if leaving is the right choice. If you love your current role and are happy with the employer and company culture, but feel that the benefits or compensation are lacking, consider addressing this before deciding to leave.
Initiate a constructive discussion with your employer to explore whether there's room for negotiating a better compensation package or additional benefits. Find out about approaching negotiations here.
Leaving a job, especially one you've been at for a while, is a significant life decision, it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions. Thoughtfully considering your reasons and planning your next steps carefully ensures that your career move is both strategic and rewarding.
Remember, it's not just about leaving a job; it's about advancing towards your long-term career aspirations.