When You Know It’s Time To Find A New Job

Has work become something you dread? Do you feel unchallenged or unappreciated in your current position? The answers to these questions and others like them may be indicative that change is in order. That being said, it can be difficult to determine whether that change is big, like a career shift, or simply speaking more directly with your boss regarding your responsibilities.
As the recent Great Resignation reveals, many people through all walks of life are unhappy at work. If you’re looking for help deciding if now is the time to leave or if you should stick it out, you’ve come to the right place. Below are a few helpful signs it may be time to hand in your resignation letter.
Your Opportunities Are Limited
If your current place of employment doesn’t offer you the chance to expand your skillset or otherwise hone your expertise in the field, it could be significantly limiting your potential. Likewise, if there are no positions for you to grow into or you’re being repeatedly passed over for a promotion despite being a top performer, it’s probably time to look elsewhere.
The Pay Doesn’t Match Your Worth or Workload
While money isn’t everything, being underpaid and overqualified can be a red flag for most, especially if it’s impacting personal finances. Before leaving for this reason, it’s essential to speak with higher ups regarding the issue and try to negotiate a higher salary or fewer responsibilities. To better make your case, research compensation levels for comparable positions and factor in your specific contributions and value to the business.
It’s Become a Toxic Working Environment
Poor management, limited resources and workplace toxicity can make work unbearable and drive anyone away. If you obsessively fantasize about quitting or work is significantly affecting your mental wellbeing, it could be time to expedite your job search. Consider exploring other options if company morale is low due to nepotism, bullying, discrimination or worse.
The Company’s Values/Ethics Do Not Match Your Own
Working for a company whose mission and values are contrary to your own can make it all seem not worth it at the end of the day. If you feel you have to lower your standards or compromise your principles just to work there, it’s a pretty good sign that the job is not the right fit. Similarly, if you’re being asked to perform actions that are unethical, you may need to take the proper precautions to protect yourself. Begin by explaining your concerns in writing and seeking a compromise. If your valid concerns are disregarded, find something new ASAP.
The Challenge Is Long Gone
Boredom at work happens from time to time. However, if you’re constantly ahead of assignments because the work is so easy and have been stuck in the same position for years, it sounds like you’re overqualified and your career may be stalled. Before jumping ship, speak with your manager about more challenging assignments, expanding your skillset or other ways to make the job more stimulating.
Plotting the Best Course Going Forward
If you’re experiencing these signs or similar negatives surrounding work, it may be time to re-evaluate your present situation. As you do, take the time to carefully weigh the pros and cons of your job and brainstorm a list of solutions to try before handing in your notice. That way, you can be sure the course of action you take has been thoroughly considered.
In the end, if leaving seems to be the best choice, you shouldn’t worry too much, as there’s a world of opportunities opening up. Whether you want to pursue something along the same lines as what you’re doing now or branch out into something new and altruistic — such as supporting vehicle donations — change is always possible.
For further information on when it’s time to find a new job, please see the accompanying resource.
Author bio: Goodwill Car Donations is a national organization that accepts vehicle donations. It is committed to providing disadvantaged individuals with job training, employment services and critical community-building support.
