Various factors play a role in the decision to change jobs. Perhaps you have found the ideal time for your next career step or received an offer for your dream job. However, one often changes jobs due to dissatisfaction with one or more realities at the current job. The following steps help you steer your career in the right direction and determine the optimal time for your next career step.
Specify reasons for professional reorientation
The following factors make clear your motivation for changing jobs. Once you understand your reasons it is easier to plan the type and time of your next career move. The time has arrived if you
- are bored by your responsibilities
- are not challenged
- cannot use your talents
- do not see any means of advancement or change
- feel trapped by pressure and hopelessness
- are worried about your position
- get no satisfaction from your job
- are constantly excluded, irritated or bullied
- are not satisfied with your salary and do not see any option for re-negotiation
- have so much work that your private life suffers
This list helps you understand why you should take your next career step. Now you can weigh your options.
Options for your next career step
You may decide that you can plan the time of your next career step without leaving your current company. Talk to your supervisor about
- more/less responsibility in your current position
- being transferred to another department
- courses and advanced training
- urgently needed holiday
If there is no way to improve your situation within your company, then consider the following options:
- changing to an equivalent position in a company in the same industry
- applying for an equivalent position in a company in a different industry
- orienting toward a new position in a new company
Consider which of these three measures will result in the desired success, namely your next career step. Once the decision has been made, careful planning of the following steps comes next.
Thoroughly plan the time of your next career step
Good planning increases the probability of changing jobs without difficulty. Remember: changing to a satisfying position may come with disadvantages. It may mean, for example, a lower salary or waiting until the next position is open. In many cases it is necessary to take on a lesser position to build up to your next career step. If you are ready to accept these factors, then you should:
- read job advertisements
- speak to industry experts about potential job options and find out whether your abilities are suitable to these options and job offers.
- speak with recruitment consultants: they always keep their eyes on candidates. They help you analyse your individual situation and present open positions in a comprehensive and objective manner to determine if you are right the job.
- Recruitment consultants also help you optimise your documents and determine your key competencies.
- Many interesting job offers are not publically announced. Also in this regard, a recruitment consultant can be your source of information, giving you an advantage over other applicants.
If you are well prepared for a professional re-orientation, make the decision for the right reasons, and weigh the advantages and disadvantages, then it is the right time for your next career step.