Is it Time to Leave Your Job?
Reprinted with permission of California People Search
One of the most frequent questions I am asked by employees is: "Do you think I should quit my job?" The answer is never simple, and naturally so. Changing jobs can change your life. It can result in a decision to tap higher ambitions, fine tune directions, or even switch careers — because it offers that rare contemplative time to evaluate your true work-life goals. But if leaving is a reactionary move, it could mean missed opportunities where you currently work.
"If things have worsened over a long stretch, it's time to take proactive steps to try and make the job conform better to your needs and expectations."
There are a couple starter questions to consider: Have you given the current problem enough time to resolve itself? If things have worsened over a long stretch, it's time to take proactive steps to try and make the job conform better to your needs and expectations. No job situation is ever set in stone, unless you remain silent. Most managers are unaware their employees are unhappy until it's too late. If you believe you've voiced your concerns clearly and have exhausted every possible avenue to no avail, then follow your instincts. (P.S. A good recruiting firm can tell you if the grass really is greener on the other side of the freeway!)
The second question is a less standard litmus test. When you're in a social setting, do you tend to talk about your job? Oftentimes people who derive self satisfaction in their professional life tend to talk about their jobs among friends when given the opportunity. If you've been avoiding the subject for awhile, now might a critical point for contemplative time. Create a side-by-side pros and cons list on leaving your job, and let it be a pivotal factor in your decision. See which column just doesn't seem to end...