If you’re here looking for signs for when to find a new job, I want to start by saying you’re not alone. One or more factors have led you to wonder if you need to move on from your job, and it is a tough place to be. Sometimes the grass isn’t greener on the other side, and a job search can seem daunting.
As you read this article about when to find a new job, see how many of these seven factors (and subfactors) ring true for you. If you still lack clarity, I encourage you to book a free consultation to chat with me. Life is too short to let our jobs steal our joy!
sWhen to Find a New Job – 7 Signs it Might Be Time to Move On.
- Company culture isn’t a good fit
- Growth has stalled
- Misalignment of values or priorities
- Personal needs or change in circumstances
- Layoffs, furloughs, or restructuring is imminent
- Lack of excitement, passion or appreciation
- Burnout or inability to shut off work
1. Company culture isn’t a good fit.
One of the biggest factors in job dissatisfaction is company culture. One can enjoy the tasks and work but find the culture and work environment depleting. It could be a boss, working relationships, a toxic culture, or a combination of these factors.
Supervisor
We all have different approaches to work, personalities, and work habits. We hope these differences can be recognized and celebrated as adults because diversity is an asset; however, sometimes, the opposite happens. Sometimes subordinates are micromanaged or reprimanded for a different way of working. If struggles with your supervisor are still occurring after efforts have been made to be flexible and adaptable, it could be time to find a new job.
Colleagues
Another aspect of a company culture that can make your work life miserable is ongoing conflicts with a colleague. Working relationships are very important. After all, we often spend as many waking hours with these individuals as we do with our families. Difficult personalities that refuse to compromise or adapt might cause one to look for a new job.
Company Culture
Finally, a toxic company culture could cause a job search. Perhaps the grapevine or rumor-mill is out of control. Or maybe a culture of extreme competition has been encouraged over teamwork. Often a toxic culture is the result of poor leadership. If you find yourself anxious about work because of the situations and conflicts that arise regularly, you likely deserve better!
2. Growth has stalled.
If you wonder when to find a new job but truly enjoy your company, perhaps your growth has stalled. Without self-development and professional growth opportunities, many employees will begin to feel stuck.
Lack of Challenge
A lack of challenge could mean you have spent the last few years doing the same thing without many opportunities to try new things. Perhaps you are craving a new project, additional education, or more responsibility. If you find yourself relating to what you just read, I encourage you to read “Alternatives to Finding a New Job” below.
Missed Promotions
I have had frustrated clients because they have been passed over for promotion. They know they are ready for growth and added responsibility, but they did not earn the promotion. Being turned down for a job or promotion can be a terrible feeling. If it has happened several times, it could be an opportunity for a fresh start at a new organization.
Capped Earning Potential
Finally, if you like your work but have reached maximum pay on the salary schedule in your role and don’t wish to promote, it may benefit you to look at opportunities with larger organizations. Often, small organizations have limited budgets. They can be a great starting point for your career, but salaries and hourly wages are often lower than larger, more established agencies.
3. Misalignment of values or priorities.
Gone are days of employees going to work just to do a job and earn a living. The generations currently in the workplace and the Gen Zers joining us need to have purpose and want to know that our values align with the company for which we work.
Values and Ethics
If you feel a misalignment of values or priorities in your organization, it could be time for a change. For example, if you value environmentally conscious efforts and your company doesn’t, it will likely lead to displeasure for you. Similarly, you may notice unethical behavior or leadership making questionable decisions. Again, this can lead to unhappiness at work.
Shifts in Company Priorities
Sometimes we join an organization unaware of these misalignments. It could be that the values communicated by the organization don’t align with actions. Or, perhaps there have been recent changes that have caused a shift in attitudes, behaviors, and priorities. Whatever the case, know that consistent misalignment can and will likely cause you to question if it is time for a new job.
4. Personal needs or change in circumstances – flexibility needed, family requirements, commutes
Earlier in my career, I had a job I liked, a supervisor I revered, and served a mission I was truly passionate about. However, I still knew it was time to make a career move. What happened, you might wonder? My situation changed. I needed more hours and opportunities to earn. While it was extremely difficult, my family and I needed something different in that season.
Other personal reasons that might cause you to look for a new job are having a child, needing a shorter commute, having a mental or physical health issue, or becoming a caregiver for an ill family member. Whatever the case, don’t allow yourself to feel disloyal. You must take care of yourself and your family first. While it hurts to hear it, someone else can always be hired, and your organization will continue to operate. You must take care of yourself and your family first.
If you’re wondering when to find a new job, but you truly aren’t dissatisfied, consider reading this article’s “Alternatives to Find a New Job” section.
5. Layoffs, furloughs, or restructuring is imminent.
Many clients have seen the writing on the wall with company acquisitions, restructuring, changes in the industry, etc.
I get inquiries regularly from people who fear layoffs, furloughs, or acquisitions are on the horizon. If you feel your company’s success is in danger or that your lack of seniority may lead to a layoff, I recommend asking questions to gather information. If you cannot get a clear answer, proactive action is best. You can begin polishing your resume and cover letter and exploring the job market, so you are knowledgeable. Trust your gut!
6. Lack of excitement, passion, or appreciation.
One of the worst feelings professionally is being underappreciated or under-recognized for your efforts and contributions. It will drain your spirit, motivation, and passion. If these feelings are all too familiar, it might be time to look for a new job.
We all had a teacher who was simply burnt out at one point in our education. You probably dreaded their class because their misery was evident. Don’t allow yourself to become that unpassionate, burnt-out person in your organization. Be proactive for your happiness and fulfillment!
7. Burnout or inability to shut off work.
Finally, another key sign of when to look for a new job is when work cannot be shut off, and you are not ok with it. If you have an unreasonable workload that is leading you to work extremely long hours, you will be the one suffering in the long run. If you continuously receive unwanted, after-hours contact, you likely need a job with clearer boundaries and a work-life balance. Finally, if you have regular nightmares or experience panic attacks, your mental health is likely compromised due to work. It is most definitely a sign to look for a new job.
Still Feeling Unsure? 5 Alternatives to Finding a New Job
1. Talk to your manager
Some situations, such as stalled growth or a change in personal circumstances, may be able to be rectified without finding a new job! If you are fulfilled by your work and enjoy the company culture, perhaps a slight shift in duties, a flexible working arrangement, etc., could allow you to restore professional happiness without the company losing a valuable asset. Most supervisors appreciate honesty from their employees and will welcome a carefully thought-out conversation from an employee who is actively engaged in helping solve the issue.
2. Explore roles within the organization
If you are struggling with an immediate supervisor, want change and growth, or need restored excitement and passion, perhaps a shift to a different role within the same organization is in order! Have you considered exploring your options to continue contributing to your company’s mission in a different capacity?
3. Propose a new role based on need or evidence
If you know what you want and have the passion and evidence to back it up, why not propose a new position in your organization or a different one? Imagine the growth that can occur from that journey! While it takes confidence and research to step up and propose a position, it can bring great fulfillment. Imagine writing your job description and proposing your mission!
4. Take a leave of absence
If the personal need, lack of excitement, or burnout are factors that resonated with you, perhaps a leave of absence is what you need in this season. It is ok to take extended leave for mental, physical, or emotional health. Similarly, we have FMLA in our country for a reason. If your personal or family situation demands your full attention, don’t be ashamed or afraid to look into this option.
5. Meet with human resources
If your work environment has become toxic or hostile, it may be time to talk to human resources. Before the “Me Too” movement, we would see employees quietly tolerate unacceptable work environments or leave positions to avoid confrontation. By taking a stand and speaking to human resources, you may be helping so many others who do not dare to stand and speak. While this may be considered a more extreme action, it is necessary in some cases.
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Hello, and welcome to my blog. My name is Loren Kelly, and I am a passionate career coach and resume writer. I love helping others find professional fulfillment! If you are at a crossroads and are considering a job search, let’s chat. I love helping others recognize opportunities and potential!
