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Is it Time to Move On? Top 9 Reasons to Change Jobs

Writer's picture: MatildaMatilda

Feeling restless in your current job? Can't shake off the nagging question, "Is it time to move on?"

It's a tough question, no doubt. And everyone starts wondering that, sooner or later. Here's a little nugget of wisdom: if you're asking yourself that question, this is the first sign that it's time to consider a change.


Everyone has their own set of reasons to change a job, so it's hard to get unanimous advice from your friends and family. The best way to tackle this decision is by weighing what matters to you. Are you seeking more freedom, better pay, or perhaps a different environment?


This post will walk you through the top nine reasons you might be due for a change. You'll discover why employees decide to pack up and how to gauge whether it's the right move for you. By the end, you'll have a clearer idea of your career path and whether a job change is in your future.


Before we start, just a friendly reminder—it's natural to feel unsure about such a big decision. But remember, doing what's best for you is never a wrong choice. So, let's explore the reasons why a job change might be just what you need.


A front page for an article for job seekers about the top 9 reasons to change jobs.


 

Top 9 Reasons to Change Jobs


Let's cover the most common and strongest reasons for job change, including:


 

#1: Lack of Growth Opportunities


Are you feeling stuck in your current job? Do you find yourself longing for new challenges and opportunities to grow? Newsflash: It might be time to consider making a change. Lack of growth opportunities is a common reason why individuals decide to move on from their current position.


Let's explore two key factors that contribute to this feeling: limited room for advancement and stagnant skill development.


Limited room for advancement


Have you hit a ceiling in your current role? Are there no further opportunities for promotion or upward mobility... unless someone retires or kicks the bucket? Limited room for advancement is frustrating and demotivating, for sure. Without the chance to progress and climb the career ladder, your professional growth becomes stagnant. And quickly, it starts to feel as though you're stuck in a loop, reliving Groundhog Day over and over again.


Before jumping to conclusions, explore internal opportunities for career progression. If your current job doesn't offer any room for growth whatsoever, start seeking out a new job opportunity where you can reach your full potential.


Stagnant skill development


Are your skills becoming outdated? Are you no longer learning and developing in your current role? Stagnant skill development can hinder your career success. If your current job doesn't provide opportunities for learning and developing your skills, you may find yourself falling behind your peers... and simply feeling bored at work.


Start by identifying the skills you want to develop or improve. Then, seek out opportunities to learn these skills, whether it's through online courses, workshops, an alternative internal position, or a new job at another company. Remember, your career is in your hands.


 

#2: Low Job Satisfaction


To loosely quote Marie Kondo, we gotta ask, does your job bring you joy? If the answer is no, it's time to consider a change. Low job satisfaction doesn't only impact how you feel from 9 to 5; it can significantly impact your overall well-being and happiness.


Two key factors contribute to low job satisfaction: unfulfilling work and a toxic work environment.


Unfulfilling work


Imagine spending your days doing work that doesn't inspire or fulfill you. It can leave you feeling empty and dissatisfied. When your job lacks meaning and purpose, it becomes challenging to find motivation and satisfaction in your daily tasks. Without a sense of fulfillment, your enthusiasm for work can dwindle, leading to decreased productivity and overall job dissatisfaction.


Whether you've outgrown your current role or found yourself performing tasks that don't align with your skills and passions, evaluate if your current job allows you to use your strengths and pursue meaningful work. If not, start exploring new career opportunities that align better with your interests and goals.


Toxic work environment


Imagine facing daily stressors, office politics, or even bullying. These factors create a hostile work environment that can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even burnout.


A toxic work environment negatively affects everything, from your job satisfaction to performance, confidence, and well-being. If you find yourself surrounded by negativity, constant criticism, a lack of support from colleagues and superiors, or aggressive behavior, start looking for a way out ASAP.


 

#3: Feeling Undervalued


Are you feeling undervalued and underpaid at your current job? Inadequate compensation can be a major source of dissatisfaction and burnout. If you find yourself constantly worrying about finances or feeling like you deserve more, dust off your resume and start applying for new jobs.


Let's explore two key aspects of inadequate compensation that may be holding you back:


Below market salary


One of the biggest indicators of inadequate compensation is earning below the market average for your role and experience level. While salary expectations can vary depending on location and industry, it's important to know your worth.


Research industry salary benchmarks and compare them to your current earnings. Try to advocate for yourself and have open conversations with your employer about your salary concerns. If they're unwilling to address the issue or provide a reasonable raise, start exploring other opportunities that offer better financial rewards. (And make sure to negotiate your salary when you get your next job offer.)

Lack of benefits


Compensation goes beyond just the salary you receive.


If your current job does not provide adequate benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, or professional development opportunities, it can significantly impact your quality of life, financial security, and overall well-being.


Consider the value of comprehensive health coverage, retirement savings matching, and other perks that contribute to your long-term financial stability. These benefits not only provide a safety net but also contribute to your overall job satisfaction and peace of mind.


If you feel like you're missing out on essential benefits that other employers offer, start exploring job opportunities that provide a more comprehensive package.


 

#4: Poor Work-Life Balance

Are you finding it increasingly difficult to juggle your personal life and your job? Poor work-life balance is a major source of stress and dissatisfaction in your career. When your job demands too much of your time and leaves little room for personal commitments and self-care, it's an obvious sign that it's time for a change.


Let's explore two common aspects of poor work-life balance that you may be experiencing:


Excessive overtime demands

Do you often find yourself working long hours, to the extent that your roommate probably thinks you've moved out? Excessive overtime demands disrupt your work-life balance, leaving you with little time to recharge and enjoy your personal life. Constantly sacrificing your personal time for work can lead to burnout and negatively impact your mental and physical well-being.


No job is worth it. Remember that we all should work to live, not live to work. So, start searching for a new job ASAP. You'll find companies that will respect your personal time and provide a healthy work-life balance.

Inflexible schedule

Does your current job offer little flexibility regarding your schedule? An inflexible schedule can make it challenging to handle personal responsibilities, attend important events, or even take basic care of yourself. When you feel trapped by rigid working hours and struggle to find a balance between work and personal life, it's a billboard-size sign to change jobs.


For starters, try discussing your schedule with your manager. If that's not an option or if it doesn't make any difference, start looking for a job with a more flexible schedule. This will allow you to better manage your time and priorities. Ultimately, it will make you feel more in control of your life and much, muuuch happier.


 

#5: Lack of Recognition and Appreciation

When considering whether it's time to move on from your current job, one important factor to consider is the lack of recognition and appreciation you may be experiencing. Feeling undervalued in your role can have a significant impact on your job satisfaction and overall motivation.

Absence of feedback

One aspect of recognition that is often overlooked is the presence of regular feedback. Without constructive criticism or praise for your hard work, it can be challenging to gauge your performance and understand how you can improve. When you feel like your efforts go unnoticed, it's natural to question whether your skills and contributions are valued.


If possible, don't jump the ship yet. First, try actively and regularly asking your manager and colleagues for feedback on your performance. By doing so, you'll get the valuable insights and reinforcement you're looking for. If you find that the feedback you receive is consistently and solely negative, with no acknowledgment of the positive contributions you're making, it's a clear sign you're in a negativity-focused environment. It's time to embrace the need for change and seek out a more constructive setting.



Ignored achievements

Another sign of a lack of recognition is when your achievements are consistently ignored or downplayed. When you accomplish something significant or exceed expectations, it's essential to have your efforts acknowledged. Without recognition for your accomplishments, it becomes difficult to stay motivated and continue to give your best to the job.

Remember, you deserve better! It's time to take matters into your own hands. Start by documenting your achievements and presenting them during performance reviews or team meetings. If that doesn't work, consider having a candid conversation with your supervisor about the recognition you deserve. If none of that works, it's time to update your resume and search for your happiness elsewhere.



 

#6: Company Instability

When considering whether it's time to move on from your current job, one crucial aspect to evaluate is the stability of the company you work for. Company instability can have a significant impact on your job satisfaction and long-term career growth.


Let's get into two key factors to consider: financial troubles and high employee turnover.

Financial troubles


Financial stability is vital for any organization's success, as it directly affects its ability to provide job security, competitive salaries, and employee benefits. If your company is facing financial troubles, it may lead to budget cuts, delayed pay raises, reduced benefits, or even layoffs. (And your job may also be at risk.)


What should you do if you find yourself in this situation? First, stay alert. Try to have an open conversation with your employer about the company's financial health and how it may impact your job. Second, start exploring other income sources or job opportunities as a safety net. Remember, it's all about being proactive and prepared.



High employee turnover

A revolving door of employees is a clear indication of company instability. When colleagues come and go frequently, it can disrupt team dynamics, hinder knowledge sharing, and lead to increased workloads for those who remain. Constant turnover can also indicate underlying issues with management, work culture, or overall job satisfaction within the organization.


If you find yourself in an environment with high employee turnover, it's time to seek new opportunities elsewhere. Take your career future into your hands, instead of waiting for the company to make decisions on your future for you.


 

#7: Poor Company Culture

Company culture is like the air in the office - you can't see it, but you can definitely feel it. It's a major player in job satisfaction. A bad company culture often manifests as a toxic work environment or an environment that clashes with your values.


Let's explore both and see what you can do about them.

Toxic work culture


If you constantly feel undervalued, overworked, and stressed out, you've probably found yourself working in a toxic workplace. You probably feel like walking on eggshells every day, with a constant fear of making mistakes. Plus, you might notice a lack of communication, constant negativity, lots of conflicts, unhealthy working behaviors and habits, and a high turnover rate.


But don't worry, there's a way out! Start by setting boundaries and don't be afraid to say 'no' when you need to. If things don't improve, it might be time to polish up that resume and start looking for a workplace that values you. Remember, you deserve a work environment that brings out the best in you, not the stress in you.



Misalignment of values


When your values don't align with your company's, it's like wearing a pair of shoes that just don't fit right. You might feel like you're constantly swimming upstream, with your personal beliefs clashing with the company's ethos. This can lead to feelings of discomfort, alienation, or even ethical dilemmas. It's like trying to dance to a rhythm that doesn't match your own, isn't it?


To solve this, start by clearly defining your own values and comparing them with your company's. If there's a significant discrepancy, consider having a chat with your supervisor or HR. If that doesn't bring about any change, it might be time to seek a company that aligns better with your values.


 

#8: Better Opportunities Elsewhere


What if it's not the job or the company? What if the grass is simply greener somewhere else? Well, that's a perfectly acceptable reason to consider changing jobs.


Let's dive into two driving forces behind this—job market demand and more competitive job offers.


Job market demand


One key factor to consider when contemplating a job change is the demand in the job market. Assessing the demand for your skills and expertise can give you valuable insights into the potential growth and stability of your career. If you discover that your current field is experiencing a decline in demand or that your skills could be paid more elsewhere, it might be wise to explore other industries or sectors.


By staying ahead of the curve and aligning your career with fields experiencing growth, you can enhance your job security and open doors to exciting new opportunities. Keep an eye on industry trends, research emerging job sectors, and consider how your transferable skills can be used in these areas.



More competitive job offers


Another compelling reason to consider changing jobs is the prospect of receiving more competitive job offers. As you gain experience and develop your skill set, you become a valuable asset to potential employers. This can put you in a strong negotiating position to secure better salary packages, improved benefits, and enhanced career growth opportunities.


Research the job market to identify industries or companies that offer attractive compensation packages and other perks that align with your career goals. Don't settle for mediocrity and don't be afraid. Explore alternative career options and find out how these competitive job offers can provide a positive boost to your life, career, and wallet!



 


#9: Personal Circumstances

Sometimes, the reason we start thinking about changing jobs isn't the job itself. It's us. More precisely, it's our personal circumstances. Whether your life has significantly changed or your interests have taken a significant turn, your personal life is a completely valid reason to start seeking a career change.


Let's explore two common personal reasons for changing jobs and see how you should approach them.

Life changes


Life happens. And it dictates your career goals and choices. For instance, becoming a parent can turn your world upside down, with the need for flexible hours or parental leave. Or perhaps you've become a caregiver for a family member, which requires a job that allows you to work from home or have a flexible schedule. It's like trying to juggle while riding a unicycle. (Hint: not easy at all!)


Before deciding to quit your current job, start by identifying what you need from a job to accommodate your new life changes. Then, explore the opportunities to get it at your current company. If that's not possible, start looking for companies that offer flexible working hours, remote work, or generous parental leave policies. Again, remember, you deserve a job that fits your life, not the other way around!



Shift in interests


Our interests change constantly. Perhaps you've noticed some significant changes, too. Maybe you've developed a passion for environmental issues and your current job in a non-green industry just doesn't sit well with you anymore. Or perhaps you've discovered a love for coding and your marketing job seems dull in comparison. It's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. It just doesn't work! Wondering how to navigate this? Consider trying some passion projects. They allow you to pursue your interests outside of your regular job responsibilities. Pursuing passion projects can be a stepping stone towards a career change or a way to fulfill your creative aspirations while staying in your current field. Whether it's starting a blog, launching a side business, or volunteering for a cause close to your heart, pursuing passion projects can ignite a sense of enthusiasm and purpose in your professional life. Plus, they can also serve as a platform to showcase your expertise and attract new opportunities that align with your newfound interests.



A picture with a list of the top 9 reasons to change jobs.

 

Conclusion


If you find yourself questioning whether it's time to change jobs, consider the top 9 reasons we discussed. Remember, your career is a vital part of your life, and it's essential to be in a position that brings you fulfillment and growth. If you feel stagnant, undervalued, underpaid, or lacking opportunities, it may be time to explore new horizons.


Trust your instincts and take the leap towards a more rewarding professional path. Embrace change, and you may find yourself on a journey towards success and personal satisfaction. Don't settle for less than you deserve. You've got this!


Matilda and Ana, founders of MoreThanCareers

Matilda Patsou & Ana Colak-Fustin


Hi there! We're Matilda and Ana, founders of MoreThanCareers, expats, international corporate recruiters, and HR professionals with 18+ years of combined HR experience. Since 2018, our career-building techniques, tools, and resources have helped over 500 coaching clients and 8,000 individuals worldwide land new, more fulfilling, higher-paying, and career-changing jobs.

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