Deciding on a Career Move in the Midst of a Chaotic Economy
Now that you’ve got that classic song from The Clash in your head, the question must be asked: Should you stay at the job you’re at or use this strange economic season to explore new options, go a different direction, or consider a monumental shift in your life’s trajectory?
There’s an old saying in the job search world that says, “Don’t pull up anchor without a motor in the water.” In other words, make sure you have your plans to move forward in place before you take any decisive tangible actions.
As you’re deciding on what’s best for your career and life plans, consider these couple questions to help you make your next move:
Is there opportunity you're not seeing where you are?
Sometimes the decision to go can hurt you in the long run. Showing commitment and longevity in a job gives employers something to notice on your resumé.
Does your current employer offer any opportunities—any opportunities at all—that excite you? Do you see people in a role at your company that you could see yourself doing exceptionally well? Does your current company provide training, education, or coaching that’s valuable to your professional development?
If you’re at a good, stable company that takes care of their people and promotes from within, don’t be too anxious to leave. Instead, find the opportunity where you’re at as much as you can. Don’t leave a healthy workplace for greener pastures unless you know those pastures are producing.
Is there a specific opportunity you’re looking for?
Is it opportunities for leadership you’re looking for? Do you feel like you’d do better in a sales or commission-based position? Are you looking for chances to work more with your hands or more with a team?
Whatever it is you’re looking for, be sure that your next move isn’t made impulsively or short-sightedly. Think about where you’re going, where you want to end up, and what the best way to get there is before you make the decision to leave your current job.
You Have Choices
The economic situation we’re in is truly a unique one. On one hand, everything is in upheaval. Business models have been turned on their heads and organizational structures have been completely reimagined. On another hand, things are active. People are buying. Businesses are growing.
The uniqueness of this time is giving people choices. Should you stay or should you go? Obviously that depends on a lot of unknowns. But whatever you choose, be sure you’re doing what’s smart both for today and for what’s to come.