7 Signs It’s Time For a Career Change
Is it Time to Switch Your Career Focus?
There are times in every career when evolution becomes necessary. Many of us are afraid of going through a career change, but it shouldn’t be something to fear in the workplace.
In fact, innovation and development in the workplace are important aspects of building a successful and stimulating life. In this article, we will explore seven signs that indicate it’s time for you to consider a career change.
Boredom or Stagnation in Current Role
If you find yourself losing interest in everyday tasks, becoming sleepy in meetings, or daydreaming of a more interesting job, it’s probably time to consider your career plan. There is absolutely no shame in becoming bored in a role; often this is due to reaching the limit of what can be learned or experienced, or simply a desire for more responsibility.
If you find yourself stagnated at work, firstly look for opportunities to develop within your role. Speak with your manager to establish if there are any ways in which you can broaden your knowledge, deepen your experience, or expand your responsibilities. If this is not possible, consider searching for a new role that provides you with more of a career challenge.
Apathy or Loss of Passion
In a similar way to boredom, apathy within a role is often caused by reaching the boundaries of development, or tasks becoming too repetitive and tedious. If you are completing the same tasks every day without the prospect of taking on a new challenge, it is understandable that a loss of passion will result.
Again, in the first instance it is advisable to speak with your supervisor; offer to take on new projects or tasks, or ask for new opportunities for development. It’s helpful if you identify specific skills you would like to learn, as well as a plan to achieve your goal. Most managers will look to accommodate such a request, but if there is no space for movement, it is prudent to look elsewhere.
Skills, Talent, and Experience not Utilized
At some points in your career, you may find yourself in a position where your skillset is not optimally utilized. In reality, it can be difficult to find a role that incorporates all of your knowledge and experience, and you should be prepared to compromise, particularly at the beginning of a career.
That said, it is always best to play to your strengths, so try to identify ways in which you can continue to utilize your talents within the remit of your current role. Make sure to mention to your manager if you have a specific skill that could be useful within the organization, but is not currently covered in your job description.
Continually look for chances to demonstrate how a process can be improved by utilizing your specific experience. It may be the case that your current job does not give you the opportunity to showcase your most valued skills; in this case, it is best to discover an alternative role.
Limited Scope for Development
One of the most commonly reported reasons for changing roles or leaving a company is that an employee has limited scope for professional development. Some junior roles are specifically designed to act as a stepping stone to an onward career; if you are in such a role and find yourself no longer challenged, speak with your manager to establish how a promotion or alternative role can help you to expand your experience.
Even if you are not in a junior role, it is always best to be honest with your current supervisor. They will most likely look to accommodate requests for career development, as it is far less disruptive than having a good employee leave the company. It also avoids the need to start the recruitment process. If, after taking these steps, it is clear that you are not able to develop further within the role or organization, look to move elsewhere.
Insufficient Remuneration
Of course, there is more to a career than just the salary, but it is a very important factor in whether an employee will stay with a company. It is worthwhile to keep informed about recommended salaries within your industry and role; if you become aware that you are significantly underpaid, it is sensible to discuss your concerns with your manager.
Similarly, if you are overlooked for, or dissatisfied with, an annual raise, this should be brought up to your supervisor or human resources representative. In cases where there is no flexibility on remuneration, consider applying for a role in which your skills and experience will be appropriately compensated.
Related: How to ask for a raise?
Stress
A certain level of pressure at work can be useful; propelling employees to meet deadlines and deliver high standards. However, excessive stress can cause dissatisfaction at work, apathy, resentment, and health problems. Stress-related conditions have been on the rise for a number of years, and are a major cause of absence.
Working with an unacceptable level of stress can also prompt the desire to change roles or leave a company. If you find yourself under considerable pressure, speak with your manager in the first instance. Be candid and courteous, explain the difficulties you are experiencing, and work with your manager to identify areas where stress can be reduced.
Often, supervisors are not aware of the problem until an employee resigns or takes a leave of absence. If an appropriate balance cannot be restored, it is worthwhile to think about moving on.
Poor Company Performance
Nobody wants to be aboard a sinking ship. Poor company performance may indicate significant management problems, which can impact upon employee development, promotion opportunities, and long-term job security.
If you suspect that a period of poor performance is based upon systemic issues within your organization, consider your position. It may be better to get out as soon as you can, to assure your financial and career security.
Work With AIE for an Exciting Career Change!
Identifying and applying for a new role can be an intimidating prospect. An employment agency like Aloha International Employment will support you in the search and application process and help you prepare for your interviews.
Transitioning into a new job can be scary and exciting! Don’t let fear stand in your way. If you are working in Hawaii, contact our experts at AIE. Our friendly and professional specialists will help you gain confidence in your skills, stand out from the rest of the crowd, and secure the next exciting step in your career change!