Consider These Seven Things Before Switching Jobs

Changing jobs can help you negotiate a better salary or refresh your passion, but don't expect positive results if you bring the same biases, insecurities and weaknesses with you. Before you bail on a good job, think about whether you're leaving out of desperation or a desire for self-improvement. Plan for a better future by making sure the next job suits your personality and provides the fulfillment you lacked in previous positions.

1. Reasons for Leaving

Changing jobs shouldn't be an excuse to run away from problems, and if you're unhappy in your field, taking a similar position with another company is a temporary fix. Conduct an honest career assessment, and consider what environmental or behavioral factors are making you discontent, such as bad work relationships or poor leadership. If your displeasure stems from personal shortcomings, such as failure to ask for promotions, try to resolve these issues before pursuing a new job.

2. Salary and Benefits

A salary increase can be a sign that recruiting employers place a higher value on your skills than your current bosses, but don't assume more money and benefits equal a better job. Research potential employers to find out their on-the-job expectations and policies on raises, as companies may offer enticing benefits while ignoring the need for a comfortable work-life balance.

3. Engagement Level

Changing jobs is often necessary if you're severely disengaged and can't work out an action plan with your employer. Accepting a similar title at a new company is beneficial if it allows you to focus on the duties you enjoy most. Use interviews to ask questions about daily duties and company priorities, making it easier to avoid getting trapped in the same unfulfilling role.

4. Skills Gap

Always take time to improve skills that offer a competitive advantage before changing jobs. Outdated skills increase the difficulty of negotiating comparable or higher pay, but temporarily sticking with a stable job gives you time to take courses or secure a mentorship. Ongoing career assessment helps you hone the most relevant, in-demand skills in your industry and widen the range of jobs for which you can apply.

5. Company Culture

Work life takes up nearly as much as time as home life, so don't overlook the importance of finding an environment you love. Whether you prefer a laid-back, innovative or conservative culture, research the company to make sure its values and employees are compatible with your personality.

6. Advancement Opportunities

An employer may have a poor advancement model or limited opportunities for promotion, motivating you to continue growing with another company. Look for supportive employers who promote from within and offer ongoing training and development opportunities. Hold off on changing jobs if the move leads to another dead end.

7. Workspace

Going from a private or two-person office to a cubicle city can be overwhelming if you need silence and privacy to be productive. The same holds true for switching between small and large businesses or leaving a heavily social environment for an isolated one. Ask about the working conditions in interviews, and find out whether employers are flexible about letting you modify your work environment.

While you can't control every outcome, changing jobs should be a positive experience. Evaluate your needs to find positions that match your career goals.

Photo courtesy of jscreationzs at FreeDigitalPhotos.net