10 Signs You Should Change Careers
Career change. There they are – two of the scariest words in the English language.
So how do you know when to even begin thinking these words?
It can be tricky. If you’re just having a bad day or two at work, it’s probably not worth uprooting your entire life hunting for a new career. But you should be paying attention if those bad days drag into weeks, months, and certainly years.
Despite some obvious warning signs, some people are still hesitant about whether or not they really want to change careers. To help, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 major signs that suggest you should take a hard look at your life plan.
10 Major Warning Signs That Indicate You Should Change Careers.
You are noticing unethical or illegal activity in your workplace.
First, and most importantly, if you notice or experience verbal or sexual harassment, not only is this behavior illegal, you should immediately start looking for a new job. Any illegal behavior should not tolerated.
You have been given more responsibility – without a pay raise.
Occasionally, your company will have a good reason to assign more work to you. Maybe they suddenly lost an employee and everyone is helping pick up the slack, or they’re testing your abilities before offering you a promotion.
But if there is no clear reason, or the reason isn’t enough for you, definitely consider a change. It’s important to find a job where you’re paid fairly for your work.
The passion is gone, and let’s face it – you’re bored.
When you first start a new job, it feels like the future is full of possibilities and you genuinely enjoy contributing ideas. To an extent, this feeling will naturally fade slightly with time, but if you dread coming to work and you’re not happy to be there, or at least tolerably content, something is wrong. Try finding a new job that taps into your true potential.
Your company isn’t doing well anymore.
If it seems like your job isn’t secure, why stick around to find out? The moment you notice the company starting to sink, begin looking for a new job.
You no longer feel like your ideas are being heard.
If you experience a noticeable decline in how well you are listened to, it’s a sign to start searching for a new job. Communication is essential and you should find a company that fully values the ideas you bring to the table.
You don’t have a healthy work-life balance.
It’s okay to put in extra work and overtime, sometimes. That’s common in any job. But when it begins cutting into your social activities or time with family, it’s time to seriously reconsider your priorities. On the other hand, if your personal life will not allow you to commit the time your job requires, you should look for something more suited to your lifestyle.
You don’t get along with the people at your office.
Whether it’s a personal or moral issue, or just a personality clash with a colleague or employer, if you’re not getting along and “talking it out” isn’t working, it’s time to start looking for a better fit.
You feel constantly stressed and negative at work.
Anxiety and unhappiness are not emotions you should feel before, during, or after work on a regular basis. If you are feeling miserable every day because of work-related pressure, you should start looking for something that makes you happier.
Work-related stress is having an impact on your physical health.
If the stress of your job is so all-consuming that it begins to affect your mental and physical health, it’s time to get out.
Work feels like a never-ending battle.
Sometimes, when there are no clear achievements or ways to grow, it can feel like you’re not accomplishing anything and stuck in a rut. You shouldn’t have to feel like this at your job. Start looking for a company or position that will challenge you and tap your potential.
Do you think it’s time for you to change careers? If so, it’s time to take the next step.
What To Do Once You’ve Decided To Search For a New Career.
There’s a lot to consider once you decide to change careers.
The first step is to make a list of goals, or create a new life vision. Outline what responsibilities, salary, benefits, and company culture you’re looking for in your new career and start looking for listings that fit the bill. Make a to-do list if that helps you stay focused on your goals.
Next, you have to make an important decision. How am I going to quit my current job? Should I deliver my two-week notice right away and then start my search, or line up a new job before leaving my current one?
The answer? That depends entirely on what you’re comfortable with. Your decision can have a big impact on you financially. Just remember: try not to burn any bridges on your way out; good references can help secure the job of your dreams.
Check MyComputerCareer Out!
Want to see more? Come on over and check us out!