Alright, let’s take it easy and rephrase the question a bit: When Should You Start Contemplating a New Job?
If your manager asks you for updates and doesn’t listen you and/or cuts you off frequently regardless of the context while you answer.
When your manager asks you what can be done for any given issue or task, upon which you give him/her options to choose from. If/when he/she asks you, what he/she should choose from the options you provided. You are basically doing his/her job.
If your actual job is different than your job description.
If the company, whether because of the way it’s structured or not, doesn’t have or provide space for promotion despite you deserve it.
If your manager asks why you are not at your desk. Yeah, really, that happened… Unbelievable, right?
If your manager asks you not to have time off because plenty things need to be done while he takes time off to ski with his friends or something.
If your manager gets all the feedback and ideas you have to provide and passes them along to the his/her manager as if they were his/her own feedback and ideas.
If your manager takes credit for something that you’ve done.
if your manager steals your work, literally.
If your manager doesn’t let you do your job properly.
If your manager micromanages you.
If your team/employer allows anyone with foul language.
If your employer doesn’t align with your work culture including work ethics.
If your working environment is not respectful or professional.
If your employer values working hours more than your impact.
If your employer puts someone in charge who has no idea what he/she should be doing in any scenario.
If your your contract gets worse every time you renew it.
If you are mainly forced to learn/work on things that wouldn’t add your career a value.
If your employer doesn’t take any action upon your complaint about pretty much anything.
If you are an exceptional employee and not getting exceptional recognition.
One more thing…
Timing is everything, especially when contemplating a job change. The most pivotal moment to start considering a new opportunity is when you find yourself in a position where you are well-compensated, working efficiently on meaningful projects with a fantastic team, and experiencing the highest level of career satisfaction.
It may sound counterintuitive, but let me elaborate.
Imagine a scenario where you’ve had enough, and the need to leave your current company becomes imperative. However, financial responsibilities like rent, bills, and your children’s tuition still demand attention. The more eager you are to escape a less-than-ideal job, the greater the temptation to rush your decision. Time becomes a pressing factor, potentially leading to hastily accepting a suboptimal position.
Now, consider the alternative. In a situation where you currently hold a “good” job, you have the luxury of casually exploring new opportunities. You can seek a superior position, negotiate for better compensation and perks, all without the stress of immediate need. Take your time, scrutinize every aspect of a potential new job, and, if negotiations fall through, you still have the comfort of a fulfilling current job.
Actively seeking a new job when you’re not desperate can remarkably elevate your career in unforeseen ways.
Someone might ask, “What if the new employer turns out to be worse than my current one?”
In response, consider it a leap of faith—an opportunity for growth and improvement. You have the ability to navigate towards a better professional environment.
Remember, take that leap; you have the capability to aim higher.
For further insights on managing your career, you might find Your Career is Your Business. Run it as Such! interesting.
