So, like most of us you’ve had some time the last 2 years to re-evaluate and now you're thinking you might want to jump ship from your current gig because it’s just not as fulfilling as it may have been.
You are NOT alone. So many clients have come to me recently because they’ve reconnected with their values and priorities and they’ve come to realize that their current job, and maybe even their career, is ready for a shake-up.
Before you make any rash “holler- I’M OUTTA HERE! and moon your boss over Zoom”-type of decisions, there are a few questions you should ask yourself.
At the heart of any life-change situation there are a few basic questions that should always be asked:
Who?, What?, Where?, When? and Why?
If you’re not completely satisfied in your current role and are contemplating a change, you need to take the time to ask yourself these same questions, or you will find yourself in the same boat a few months after you jump ship.
The answers might surprise you, they might not. But armed with the answers, you might find that you’re able to make some changes in your current role to make you more satisfied, or you’ll be equipped with info for any interviews you line up.
Who? Who do you want to work with that you’re not getting a chance to in your current workplace?
Are you a Jr. Creative who wants more direct mentorship from the Creative Director? Are you a pink-haired, punk whose desk is covered in Star Wars figures and all your coworkers are beige clad, sensible heel wearing, squares? Are you a cabin boy who needs to learn the ropes? Literally? Would you prefer coworkers who were more like you?
In your current role, there might be simple ways to work closer to people you want to - just ask for the opportunity. Ask to be put on a project with that team or ask for a mentorship with a particular manager.
If there is no possible way to work with the people you want at your current position, make sure to ask yourself, specifically, why you want to work with them. Is it to learn, to feel more comfortable culturally? Great, know what type of people you want to work with and take that info with you to your next role.
What? What do you want to be working on that you’re not?
If you want to make TV commercials, but you’re stuck in accounting? It might be time to move. Are you basically happy at your job but you just want to work on a different client within your accounts? That might be more possible with a few conversations with your manager. If you want to make hamburgers but you work in a chocolate shop? Then yeah - get that resume together.
Sit back and ask yourself exactly what it is you want to be working on and why you want to be working on that specific thing. Got the answer? Let the hiring manager at your next interview know exactly what you would like to work on and that you’re jumping ship for the opportunity to do it.
Where? Where do you want to work?
Not just physical location but what about the size and culture, of your current workplace isn’t satisfying? If it’s a matter of you working in the New York office but would be happier in London - ask for a transfer.
Do you want to work in a small company but you’re one of thousands? Do you want to work in a multinational corporation, but you share your boss’ home office with the one other employee? Knowing what size of company you feel you make the most impact in is important.
Size tends to also affect company culture. “Culture” isn’t ping-pong tables, beer kegs and jaunty sea shanty sing-alongs. It’s the way the company operates and treats its employees. It’s how they get things done. If you want a younger-skewed, informal, non-profit giving culture but you work as a bond trader in a blue blazer - it’s definitely time for a move.
When? Do you know for sure you’re ready to jump ship?
You’re 100% certain that you want to leave big-city life and go to work on a dairy farm? More power to ya! When do you want to do that? ASAP? After you have saved up a hefty money cushion? Before the next business quarter? Once you have a solid date, you can work back towards a clear exit strategy including networking, interviewing and notice giving.
Why? Back to the basic question. Why are you unhappy at your current job?
A little self examination upfront can save you many tears spilled in the mailroom. If it’s simply a matter of a salary bump - go forth and and talk to. your manager. However, if you’re intrinsically unhappy because your career doesn’t line up with your larger life goals, values and priorities, then yes. Jump.
Yours in new futures goodness,
EBS
P.S. Looking for practical help to walk you through this step by step? Start here.
