The Autumnal Equinox is a time of change. It’s the beginning of the cycle of seasons that leads to the fruitful destination of summer. It is the perfect time to reflect and decide if it’s time to make a career change in order to accomplish a bigger goal. It could be something small, like taking on new projects at work, or something big like switching companies. But how can you judge when it’s the right time for a change? We asked our experts and compiled three tell-tale signs.
1. You are burnt out – Mike Peckham, Client Relationship Director
Mike says that several factors can contribute toward apathy in your current position. You may have a stressful commute, or you may not connect with the subject matter of your job. Maybe it’s your coworkers who add stress to your daily routine. Of course, small changes may be in order like moving closer to work, or joining a different team within your company. However, if you find yourself not wanting to get out of bed in the morning, or daydreaming more than producing quality work, it may be time for a change. Moreover, if you find that your job is filtering into and affecting other areas of your life, such as your personal relationships, or that you are in a continual state of depression, it may be time for a more drastic change.
Take time to dissect your job and discover what exactly is causing the lack of energy toward your position (e.g. commute, workload, work environment). Are you feeling stressed about your workload? Here are some techniques you can try to beat workplace stress. If the issue is out of your control, talk to your boss and see if you can reach a more fulfilling agreement. It could mean taking on new projects or working with different people. If your requests are ignored or denied, it may be time to look for a better opportunity or make a career change.
2. You have outgrown your position – Matt Fox, Talent Acquisition Manager
Have you been in your position for a number of years but have not received proper promotions or grown in your transferrable skills? Having a steady job is great, but don’t get complacent. Career expert Alexandra Levit says, “You should be learning at least one new transferable skill—such as client relations, public speaking, marketing, finance or sales—every year, as well as gaining new responsibilities and management opportunities with time.”
One of our own experts Matt suggests talking to your boss about how you can grow in your position. Establish the goals that you want to accomplish in the next year, and specifically how you are going to reach those goals. Maybe you can take on a career mentor who will push you in the direction you want to go. But most importantly, do not settle. Let yourself become better with each passing day.
3. You are not valued – Kevin Raxter, Managing Partner
When your talent is undervalued, it is difficult to stay motivated. If your boss does not believe in your potential, he or she will not sponsor your career advancement. TCG Managing Partner Kevin says that you must believe in your abilities and keep cultivating your talents. If you come to your boss with ideas and they are immediately stamped out, or you are constantly being belittled or reminded of your weaknesses, it may be time to make a change.
First, start by trying to present the issue to management. Express that you believe you have potential and would like more opportunities to show how much you can handle. If your concerns are not addressed or taken seriously, it might be time to start looking for a company that does value your talent and experience. Don’t let yourself be taken for granted.
Change is scary. But with change comes new opportunities and the overall betterment of yourself as an individual. Take time to evaluate where you are and where you want to be, and decide if it is time to make a career change.
