PART 1 : why to make changes in your career?
In the ever-evolving world of work, careers are less and less linear. There’s no longer a standard path; professional journeys are unique and reflect the ambitions and passions of a labour force in search for meaning in their work. Internal training, the emergence of new trades and career paths that didn’t exist a decade ago are creating a growing number of new opportunities for professionals. If changing jobs has been on your mind, you may be wondering if it’s just a passing thought or if this desire reflects a genuine interest in exploring changes in your career. To help you in your reflections, here are five serious reasons that could push you to submit your resignation.
You feel that your role is losing importance
In the face of the changing and increasingly specific demands of their market, today’s organizations often have no choice but to reinvent themselves, improve and introduce new processes. When major changes occur, it is likely that your role or that of your department becomes less important. If so, changing jobs is something to consider.
Seeing your responsibilities dwindle may mean that your organization is attributing less value to the processes you were in charge of and the skills you bring to the company. These changes can hinder your professional advancement internally, or even threaten your position. It may be worthwhile to leave your company before it “leaves” you.
Your work environment is toxic
Your job isn’t just about the set of tasks you perform. No matter the industry or your title, you interact with colleagues, supervisors, or clients every day. The nature of these interactions is not to be taken lightly. A growing number of studies show the impact of workplace socialization on the mental and physical health of employees.
If you experience discomfort, from professional incivility to harassment, don’t let a job ruin your health. As soon as you spot the first signs of a toxic work environment, start preparing for your departure. These behaviours are often rooted in an organizational culture and therefore can’t be changed, despite all your good intentions.
The skills you were hired for are not a good fit
The skills you spent time and energy developing have landed you a job. However, you realize that these are not aligned with the talents and skills that you naturally possess or that you like to use. If you’re a creative stuck in an analytical job, or a social person doomed to working alone, your days are probably draining your energy.
Take advantage of the current labour shortage to find a position that reflects your passions and aspirations even if you don’t have the “typical” profile for the job.
You aren’t motivated by the results you’re aiming for
Professional alignment between your personal values and the vision and mission of the organization you work for is essential in order to keep your motivation and morale high. If you don’t feel like you’re making a positive difference or you don’t relate to your daily tasks, it might be time for a career change.
You feel like you deserve more
Your salary isn’t meeting your expectations? You tried to get a raise without success? Maybe it’s time to hand in your resignation.
The amount on your pay slip probably isn’t the reason why you accepted your position in the first place. However, your pay directly determines your quality of life and also influences your level of perceived stress. If your salary contributes to a financial burden that you can no longer bear, don’t feel bad when thinking about leaving your employer.
As mentioned, pay isn’t everything. In the event that your salary expectations are being met, but you still feel that your job isn’t giving you enough in terms of fulfillment or personal growth, it may be time to explore new professional horizons.
PART 2
That’s it, it’s decided! You’re now sure about quitting your job. If this is the case, you must have spent long hours figuring out if this was the right decision for you. Now that you’ve come to the conclusion that it’s time to move on, new thoughts fill your mind. What is the next step in your professional life? This transition period can be a stressful time and can become a source of frustration when your research doesn’t come to fruition as quickly as you’d like.
In this article, discover our five tips for approaching your search with confidence and finding the job of your dreams.
Explore your career options
Looking for a similar position at another company, changing industries, or going full 180 and finding a new career; your options are endless. To make an informed decision, take the time for introspection to determine your strengths and weaknesses as well as your passions and ambitions. A word of advice: don’t let your current skills and abilities limit the possibilities you consider. Taking the time to get new certifications can be worth it if it gets you the job of your dreams.
In fact, by considering all the careers that interest you regardless of your current skill level, you might spot an interesting pattern. For example, if becoming a lawyer is an option that interests you, without having to go back to school, you could develop professionally in a career that focuses on your communication skills or where you can defend opinions or causes that you take to heart.
The main goal is to find what you’re truly enthusiastic about to land a job that is as aligned with your natural skills as with your future aspirations.
Work your network
Networking works. About 60% of positions are obtained by professionals through their network of contacts. Whether they are members of your family, friends, or acquaintances from your university years, don’t hesitate to ask for help from those around you. You’ll find that most of the people you contact will be happy to share potential leads with you or put you in touch with people looking for talent.
You could also attend more formal networking cocktails and networking events as often as possible. Prepare your elevator pitch and set specific goals such as getting the phone number of three recruiters.
Leverage technology in your research
Technology can become your best ally in your research. According to a LinkedIn survey, 79% of job seekers use social media to find a job. In addition to using your knowledge as mentioned above, also consider activating your online network. Advertise on social platforms that you’re ready to seize new professional opportunities. Who knows? A post of a few lines could get you an interview.
Polish your online image by updating your LinkedIn profile, making sure all information is up to date and verifying that your contact details are correct. The web is also full of information about the companies you might apply at. A look at their website or Facebook page might give you a glimpse of their organizational culture. This will allow you to assess the fit and possibly to prepare adequately for interviews.
Get in touch with experts
Is your profile atypical? Do you want to access new opportunities? Do you hope to work in a specific industry? Are you looking for a position with high responsibility? These are all scenarios that could push you to get help from headhunters. True recruitment experts, headhunters can provide access to positions in line with your ambitions. Unless you’re looking for a specific position, you can contact a generalist firm. You can also get in touch with a recruiter that you’ve worked with before. This person can take charge of your profile or refer you to a colleague who can better guide you.
If you’re unfamiliar with the world of recruiting firms or want to know what to expect when working with a headhunter, don’t hesitate to contact Radar Headhunters.
Take your time
According to Statistics Canada, it takes an average of 20.6 weeks for a Canadian to find a new job. Depending on your situation and your finances, this period may seem longer or shorter to you. Our recommendation is to be patient and to see your professional transition period as an opportunity to discover what really makes you tick.
If your situation is similar to that of most Canadians, you will likely spend most of your days at your workplace, surrounded by your co-workers. Taking the time to choose a work environment that matches your aspirations and echoes your values is therefore essential.
Don’t be in a hurry. Great careers are often preceded by great, and sometimes long, periods of introspection.