is it time for a job change? take these 6 steps to decide.

Does the start of a new year have you craving professional change or a new challenge?

Here at mum, we know changing jobs is a big deal. So, before you take the leap, consider these six steps to help you decide whether a career move is the right thing for you…

1. reflect on your accomplishments.

Start by taking stock of what you’ve achieved in your current role:

• What are you most proud of? 

• Which of your tasks, responsibilities or projects have you gained positive feedback for? 

• Where do you feel you’ve made the most impact?

To help you feel fulfilled and productive, look for ways to do more of this sort of work. If there’s room to grow your experience further in your current role, staying put could be great for your CV.

On the other hand, if you feel you’ve gained enough experience or can’t see ways of expanding on it where you are, it may be time to look for opportunities elsewhere.

2. identify areas for positive change.

Do you feel like you’ve plateaued, or stopped growing and developing at work? Does your work-life need an upgrade? It may be you need to move on. But first, ask yourself:

• Do you get to spend enough time doing the work you really love?

• Have you outgrown your current responsibilities and/or feel the need for a new challenge to keep you engaged? 

• Does the working environment or culture suit you?

• Are you proud to work for your current company?

If there are things you feel could improve in your current role or workplace, talk to your manager as soon as possible and be specific about what you’d like to achieve. But if that conversation doesn’t progress things, it’s probably time to start looking elsewhere. 

3. invest in meaningful connections.

Considering the amount of time and energy we spend at work, it’s no surprise many people want to build mutually beneficial relationships in their workplace. Whether you’re looking for mentorship, camaraderie, friendship, or a combination of all three, good workplace relationships can enhance your experience, enjoyment and future employability.

If you feel you’re lacking good connections at work and want to develop a better network, consider these questions:

• Who do you value working with now and who have you enjoyed working with in the past?

• How have these connections contributed to your overall job satisfaction and success? What made them different?

• Does your current role offer opportunities to make valuable and meaningful workplace connections?

• What more can you do to connect with the kind of people you thrive around?

If you can’t connect with the people you want to be around in your current company, a new role might help broaden your horizons and expand your network.

4. prioritise self-care and wellbeing.

Job satisfaction isn’t just about professional accomplishments; work also has a huge impact on your overall wellbeing, both good and bad. 

Think: how does your current role make you feel? Feeling a level of responsibility in your role can be engaging and motivational, and lots of people work well under some pressure. But if your current job makes you feel overwhelmed or burned out, or you’re noticing negative mental and physical effects, it’s time to take stock.

• What is it about your current role that doesn’t serve you?

• Do the hours make it difficult for you to do things that make you happy, like seeing friends and family?

• Does the environment discourage you from focusing on self-care practices, such as exercising or eating well?

• Are you treated with respect and fairness by colleagues, management and customers?

Everyone’s idea of work-life balance or a positive working environment is different, but if you feel your wellbeing is at risk where you are, talk to your manager. If that doesn’t result in a fundamental change for you, it’s probably time for a job move.

5. set personal and professional goals.

Now you’ve considered the factors that will help you grow professionally and personally at work, set yourself some clear goals as a roadmap to career success.

If you think it’s possible to achieve some of your goals in your current role, talk to your manager and make commitments to develop in the right direction, setting a deadline for seeing results. 

If you decide to change jobs, draw up a wishlist for your ideal role.  Keep in mind the priorities you’ve identified – including deal-breakers and those you’re willing to flex on – so you can create thoughtful, informed goals for your professional future. 

6. explore new opportunities.

If all the signs point towards a job change, then it’s time to take the leap. Check out how to write an unforgettable CV and three ways to supercharge your job search for help getting started.

There are plenty of amazing opportunities out there, but don’t rush into anything. Following these six steps will help reveal what you’re looking for in your next role, so you can make sure your next move is right for you.

Want help finding a role and culture where you belong? Send us your CV and let’s chat.