In today’s economy, it can be intimidating to consider a career change. In fact, many people have probably held on to their jobs longer than they would have in the past because they knew it would be a difficult task to find a new job. With many new government incentives for job creation, it may finally be the time to consider changing careers if you are unhappy. Of course, it is important to carefully analyze whether it is your actual career you dislike or whether your employer, supervisor, or office situation is the problem.
So what are some reasons to consider a career change?
- Feeling Unappreciated - many employers underestimate the power of employee praise and recognition. Many people are motivated by these forces and thrive off of appreciation. If those needs are not being met, then the person will slowly lose their drive and motivation and will resent their job. This is a big reason why many people will switch careers - so that they feel their efforts make a difference and are appreciated.
- Poor Company Culture – If your office environment exhibits poor communication, lack of teamwork, micro-management, and you feel like you don’t fit in, it could be time to consider a new career.
- Compensation - You are not compensated enough to sustain your cost of living, are not being paid your “market worth” or are being overworked for the amount of pay that you receive.
- Commute – Most professionals want to live less than 25 miles from where they work. How close or far you live from work affects your level of satisfaction with your current job. Dealing with constant rush hour traffic and long commute times is often enough to make many people decide to consider leaving their current position.
- Boredom – Your career no longer challenges or excites you and you find yourself dreading work every day which can affect your productivity and level of career satisfaction.
- Benefits - medical and supplemental benefits are an important part of any job and if an employer fails to provide adequate benefits, it could lead employees to want to make a career switch sooner than later.
- Company Downsizing – the company you work for is not doing well and may downsize in the near future which puts your job in jeopardy. Time to turn the negative into a positive by exploring your interests and pursuing work that will make you happy and satisfied.
There are many online communities that offer free career advice and resources to help you “put your best foot forward” in presenting and marketing yourself to potential employers. Before you take a leap of faith, research your options, know what is available and do your best to make yourself stand out to potential employers. Good luck in whatever you decide!
