There are many different definitions of change, but one we often come across is how it relates to a job - switching from one to another. It can be daunting to make such a huge life decision, and can feel like a risky move. However, change can be a great thing and can bring a range of benefits, such as learning new skills, gaining more experience and, often, a better salary. In this article, we'll explore why and how to know when it might be time to start looking for a new job.
There are a few key indicators to look out for when thinking of changing your job. Firstly, do you feel unhappy with your current role? This could take the form of feeling anxious about coming to work each day, feeling unappreciated and not rewarded for your efforts, or feeling that you're not being challenged enough - it's important to evaluate these feelings before deciding to move on.
Are you feeling unfulfilled in your current role? Your career should be about more than your next payslip - it should be about feeling proud of the work you do, feeling like you're growing, and truly utilising your skills. If these feelings are absent and you can't see a path towards personal growth within your current job, it might be time to look elsewhere.
Are you stuck in a pay grade with no promotion prospects? It's easy to become complacent at work, and realise that you've been in the same job for a long time — but sometimes it's beneficial to assess if this job can take you to where you want to be in terms of career progression. If you feel like you're in a stagnant salary bracket, it's likely worth considering a new job to gain greater opportunities.
Finally, take a look at your work environment. A great team can make or break a job, so it's worth assessing your work environment and whether it is providing you with a happy, healthy, and supportive environment. Some signs that your workplace is not looking after you could be feeling disrespected or undermined, a lack of actual support, or even feeling weighed down by negativity.
When you have decided that a change of job could be beneficial for you, the next step is to do your research - look into what opportunities are out there, what salaries are available, and which roles could be interesting for you. Identify your wants, needs and wants in a job and start searching job listings which meet your criteria.
It is also very important to prepare your resume — update the sections that no longer apply, highlight and emphasise your hard and soft skills, tailor it to the job description, and indicate your career goals. Make sure you create an accompanying Cover Letter and be mindful of your CV's design, as this could make all the difference.
Finally, make a plan. It's great to have an idea of where you want to be and the steps you need to take to get there. Write down your goals, create a timeline whereby you can achieve them, and make sure you prioritize — this will make the job-seeking process a whole lot less daunting.
The key takeaway from this article is to assess if you're really ready for a change — make sure to look at the signs and consider the implications both for your career and in your personal life. The jobseeking process can be complex, but it's worth the effort if it means you can go forward with your career in a positive and rewarding way. So if you feel like it's time to change jobs, use the information here to take the first steps towards it.
To summarise, career change is a common and beneficial step to take, and being aware of the signs that it's time to move on, researching the job market, tailoring your resume, and creating a plan to realistically achieve your goals can help ensure the transition goes as smoothly as possible. Don't be afraid to make a change — take the leap, and you might just find yourself in a much better position.
Finally, don't be afraid to take action. There is a wealth of opportunity out there, so make the most of it and use the research and preparation you have done to reach out with your CV and Cover Letter. Good luck, and happy job-seeking!
If you're interested in a career change check out the upcoming Jobs Expo events in Galway, Dublin and Cork this autumn. Register for FREE ADMISSION here.
