Is it time to consider a career change? Whether the pandemic has interrupted your career plans or you’re just in need of a change, switching jobs is a challenge. The road to the right career is different for everyone. And it’s not unusual for people to change career paths a few times in their lifetime. If you are unhappy in your current position or the pandemic has forced your hand, a career switch may be your next step.
Here are some signs that you may be ready for a change.
Your Job Outlook Has Worsened
When you start a new job, one of the main factors to look for is the future outlook in the field. The pandemic has shifted the playing field for many companies.
Changes in the industry, the economy, and technology can all affect a job’s outlook for the future. What may have started as a promising position may not be as appealing anymore.
Sometimes job opportunities within a company dry up and you need to move on. Finding a job with a better outlook is a smart move for your future.
If your current job situation doesn’t look promising for long-term growth or stability, it may be time to start your search for something new.
Your Current Job Wasn’t a Choice
For many people, the responsibilities of life force them into the first job they can find. Even if it’s not an ideal position, lots of employees stay put and fail to reach their full potential.
Ask yourself whether you want to be where you are right now. If the answer is no, it may be time for a job change. Feeling fulfilled in your career is an important part of life.
You want to grow professionally as you grow personally. If your current job was more of a necessity than a choice, take a chance and look for something you want to do.
You Want a Salary Increase
Sometimes the job you have doesn’t meet your financial needs or hopes for the future. If there’s no chance for a substantial increase in pay, it may be time to look for a more lucrative position.
Money isn’t everything, so don’t jump into a new job just because it pays more. Make sure it fits your professional and personal needs.
Some industries pay more than others. Do your research to find a company that offers competitive pay for your qualifications.
The key is to find a new job that offers a higher earning potential and a higher level of job satisfaction.
You Dream of Doing Something Else
Do you find yourself wishing you could do something you love? You may have put your dreams on the back burner to take a job to pay the bills.
Sometimes fear or responsibility gets in the way and people fail to pursue their true passions. Instead of following your dream, maybe you followed the safest path.
That’s okay! You’re not alone. But if you don’t explore the possibility of doing something you love, you may never get the chance to do it.
Technology is making it easier for people to explore new careers and gain exposure in their chosen field. Don’t give up on your dreams.
With the right resources, talent, and hard work, it’s possible to turn your dream into a job you love.
Your Life Has Changed
As you age, life changes. These events transform our perspectives and lead us to reevaluate our priorities.
Life-altering events such as getting married, having children, or getting divorced can turn out lives upside down. These events may lead us to a career change.
Whether you hope to have more flexibility, more money, or more opportunities, it may be time to search for a new position. Changes in life can trigger new interests or inspire you to become more ambitious.
What was a fun job may not meet your needs any longer. Whether you hope to spend more time at home or long for a job that requires travel, you won’t find it unless you look.
Your Job Affects Your Health
When your work situation becomes unbearable, it affects your health. If you work in a toxic environment or are under constant stress, it’s an unhealthy situation to be in.
You deserve to be able to earn a living without suffering because of it. Although some job stress is normal, it shouldn’t be so extreme that it makes you unhappy or sick.
If your situation has become too much to handle, it’s time to move on. Preserve your health and happiness and find a new job that’s right for you.
Your Career Isn’t Challenging
It’s not unusual to lose interest in a job after years of doing the same thing each day. What once was a good job may have lost its spark.
If you find yourself longing for a challenge, you may want to look for a career change. It’s important to feel good about what you do.
Many people long for a job where they can make a difference. Branching out and doing something more challenging can spice things up in your professional life.
When a job becomes a habit, it’s time for some new motivation and purpose. If you’ve worked in the same field for a while and it no longer challenges you, take a chance on something new.
You’re Experiencing Burnout
You may have loved your career at one time. But if after many years it’s hard to get out of bed and head to work, you may be experiencing burnout.
If you feel you’re not advancing, making a difference, or earning what you should, burnout can set in. This steals your joy and makes coming to work a burden every day.
This is stressful and a definite sign you need a change. There are some work situations a vacation or pay increase can’t fix.
If burnout is the issue, you need to evaluate the situation. Determine if you need a job change or if you need a new career.
A career switch is a big step, but in some cases, it’s the best solution for a happier, healthier life.
You’re Unhappy With Your Position
A job is about more than simply earning a living. For many people, their job is an important part of their identity as a person.
Job satisfaction is an important aspect of overall life satisfaction. If you’re unhappy at work, it affects other areas of your life as well.
You may find yourself dreading the thought of going to work or putting off tasks related to your job. You may be tired of working long hours, being under constant pressure, or dealing with difficult colleagues.
Whatever the reason, you may find that a new focus is good for your mood and outlook for the future. if you’re unhappy with your current position, think about what you’d like to do.
There are amazing job-finding services available to help you find the right fit for you.
Your Priorities Have Changed
Sometimes a job takes all of your time and leaves little room to focus on other things that matter. As people get older and their circumstances and perspectives change, it’s not unusual for their priorities to change as well.
An illness, divorce, new baby, or other major life change can transform your priorities. There may be a cause you’re passionate about.
Many people enjoy working for non-profits that serve to better the world. There are real jobs out there that align with your values or goals.
You may be able to put your talents to work for you. Who says you can’t follow a lifelong dream or pursue your passions?
If you hope to adjust your life to focus on a cause, your family, or a hobby you’re passionate about, a career change may be the solution.
More and more, people are opting for a career change at 50 or even starting over after retirement. Start your search and see what’s out there for you.
You’re Tired of Your Boss
Unfortunately, not everyone has a good boss. One of the main reasons people leave their jobs is due to unsatisfactory leadership.
Poor managers drive away talent. When someone feels their boss is uncaring, unfair, or unethical, it makes coming to work difficult.
Poor leadership creates a toxic work environment for employees. A toxic workplace is stressful and bad for your health.
Workers often associate low compensation, minimal benefits, and lack of concern for employees with poor leadership. Finding a job with a supportive boss can provide welcome relief if you’re in a tough situation at work.
Poor leadership affects your morale and productivity in the workplace. If you hate going to work for these reasons, it’s time for a positive career change.
You Want More Flexibility
The pandemic has taught workers they don’t need to be in the office all day to be productive. Management and workers are enjoying the benefits of a flexible work schedule.
Working from home is great for self-starters and those with family obligations. Many people find they are more productive with remote or hybrid work situations.
Some companies are more onboard with flexible work situations than others. If you’re looking for more flexibility or a more relaxed work environment, there are options available.
Many companies recognize that the shift for flexible scheduling is only growing. And they are meeting the needs of talented new employees by providing options in the workplace.
You’re Interested in an Evolving Field
A look to the future, advances in technology, and environmental concerns have created new jobs that weren’t available a few years ago. Jobs dealing with environmental power, app development, and social media management are growing in popularity and are here to stay.
If you have a degree or experience that relates to one of these industries, it’s a good time to explore new possibilities. While some emerging fields require new training, you may be able to combine your experience with some updated training.
If you’re interested in one of these emerging fields, now is a good time to update your resume and look for new opportunities.
Your Talents Lie Elsewhere
Are you in a field where you feel like you don’t belong? Many people choose a college major before they know themselves or what they truly want to do.
If you feel like a fish out of water whenever you’re at work, you may want to find a better fit for yourself. Your degree, skills, and experience could land you a better job doing something you enjoy.
You’ll never know until you explore your options. If you feel your talents don’t match your current position, enlist the help of a professional service to help you find a job you’ll love.
Making a Career Switch
A fulfilling career is an important part of a happy life. There’s no reason to stay in a job that makes you unhappy.
Whether the pandemic has altered your career plans or you’re simply looking for a career switch, a new job can add excitement and stability to your life. If you feel like your current job doesn’t meet your professional or personal needs, there are many options to choose from.
Today’s job market is diverse and offers lots of opportunities for hard-working professionals. And companies around the world are looking for talented candidates like you.
Kerry Consulting helps people looking for work and looking to hire every day. Let us help you find the dream job or the dream employees you’re looking for. Contact us today to learn more.