7 Signs it’s Time for a New Job

 

Struggling with the daily grind? Or maybe you’re stuck in a rut and you don’t even know it. Below are seven signs you might need to start looking for a new job, and it’s not just about lack of motivation.

1. You struggle with your workload

If you’re struggling to keep up with your work, missing deadlines and making mistakes, this can be a sign that you might not be cut out for the job. However, it may also be an unreasonable workload. Has this always been the workload for this role? How did your predecessor handle it? Is it a peak season or other market-driven influences increasing the amount of work? Talk to your manager first if you’re having issues performing your job, see if this is an issue that has been a constant to the role or just to you.

2. You’re only there for a paycheck

If money is the ONLY thing motivating you to get to work in the morning then it’s time to re-evaluate the situation. Studies show that while money is important, career growth opportunities, engaging work, company culture and learning and development are all important factors for higher job satisfaction. Find a job that will fulfill more than just your wallet.

 3. You start joining in negative conversations

Almost every workplace has downsides, but most of us keep the negative murmurs to a minimum. But if you find yourself increasing complaining about your job, the boss and the office to anyone who will listen, you’re in trouble. Worse still is if you start gravitating towards those unhappy campers in the office more than usual and chiming in with your own gripes.

4. You’re bored

Wasting hours on Facebook? Checking up on the latest game? If you find yourself bored at work and spending more time watching the clock than doing your job, then you’ve already checked out mentally. Perhaps the job isn’t challenging enough for you, maybe it’s not the type of work that excites you or builds your skillset; either way, if you aren’t feeling engaged throughout your day, it’s time to look for a better way to spend those 8 hours.

 5. There’s no career growth

You may absolutely love your current job, but if there’s no room for progression then it may be time to look for growth opportunities elsewhere. Don’t let your love of a great workplace cause your career to stagnate. If you have long-term goals for where you want your career to be in 5-10 years, then you need to work back and figure out what your next step is. If you can’t take that next step at your current role, it’s time to look for somewhere that will.

6. You industry or profession is dying

This isn’t maritime lore, you do not need to go down with the ship. If your industry or profession as a whole is shrinking, then you should start thinking about your exit strategy. How can you up-skill or stretch your experience so that you can transfer into another career path? Don’t let your skillset become outdated and unemployable; stay abreast of latest trends and always be learning. Look at job postings in growth industries; compare what skills they are looking for to your own and try to bridge any gaps.

7. Other people are jumping ship

If you see a pattern of people consistently leaving around you, keep an ear to the ground and stay alert. Are there common reasons for leaving? Are those reasons valid? Is there something going on that you should pay more attention to? Multiple departures could be a coincidence but it could be a red flag for rough times ahead, and as we said in point #6, you don’t need to go down with the ship.

BEFORE YOU QUIT YOUR JOB

If you think it’s time for a new job, we strongly recommend finding a new job before resigning your current position. Job searches often take longer than expected and unemployment can lead to added stress. Before you decide to quit, consult your loved ones and trusted advisors to explain your reasoning and seek guidance. Figuring out your next step can be stressful, but with careful research, planning and support, it can lead you to a very fulfilling career.