Job dissatisfaction is at an all-time high. A new study by the polling firm Gallup found that workers worldwide are increasingly unhappy with their jobs. Sixty percent of respondents said they felt emotionally detached from their work, while 19 percent reported feeling miserable. That’s a lot of people who may be considering a career change.
It’s no surprise that the labour market has been hit with the Great Resignation, and employers are facing a generation of workers who’re content to stay in their positions while “quietly quitting”. These work trends are more than just hashtags – they illustrate that many people are rethinking their emotional attachment to their jobs and considering other paths that might offer them more fulfilment.
Signs you’re ready to make a change
If you feel like something is lacking in your professional life, here are some red flags you should look out for.
1. Your job isn’t putting a smile on your face
Do you ever feel like your current job isn’t for you? Like you could be doing something better with your life? Although this feeling is normal, persistently feeling this way may signal that you need to focus on your next career move. Some key signs that you’re in the wrong job are increased stress and anxiety, dreading going to work, and not feeling fulfilled or motivated. Noticing these things about yourself means it’s time to make a change and start planning for a different future.
2. Your work isn’t challenging you
There are some clear signs that you’re not being challenged enough in your current job. These include daydreaming, scrolling through your phone, or having too much time on your hands. If you’re not being challenged, it means you’re not learning or growing in your career. This can prevent you from achieving your goals and reaching your full potential. You could be ready for a career change if this resonates with you.
3. You deserve a raise
It can be incredibly frustrating to feel underpaid, especially if you’re working hard and not getting the recognition you think you deserve. Sometimes a career change can be the best solution to achieve a salary hike. Here are a few factors to consider when making your decision.
First, take an honest look at your skills and experience. Are you being paid what you’re worth – what’s the right number? Second, think about your goals. What do you want to accomplish in your new job? Could you achieve that where you are? Finally, consider whether you’re happy. Money isn’t everything and another job with a higher salary may not solve all your problems.
4. The company culture doesn’t match your vibe
It can be difficult if you feel like you’re one of the outsiders at work. Maybe your colleagues don’t click with you, or you don’t share the same values as your company. In either case, it might be time to start over at a company that’s a better fit for you.
How to make a career change
When you set out to change your career path, you must be clear about what kind of change you’re looking for. This way, you can develop the right mindset and job search strategy to help you find your new role.
There are four types of career changes open to you:
- Same industry, a new role
- Same industry, the same role
- New industry, a new role
- New industry, the same role
Whatever your desire for a change, you should know that it won’t be an easy decision. You need to plan and think carefully before you take any action.
Sometimes it’s hard to predict what the new role will look like and whether or not it’ll suit you. That’s why it can be helpful to try out and test the new job beforehand. Find out how it feels compared to your current job. Is it worth making the switch?
One way to do this is to take time off from work, even if it’s just for a week, and focus on a project close to your heart. This will give you a sense of what working in your new field might be like. Or try spending your weekends or after-hours exploring different industries or job roles that interest you. This could mean volunteering, shadowing someone at work, or interviewing people whose careers you admire.
Gather ideas for career alternatives by learning about career opportunities and discussing your core values and skills with friends, family, and networking contacts. If you need help with what careers might be open to you based on your personality and skills, meet with a career counsellor for professional guidance.
How to prepare for a career change
One way to position yourself for a career change is to develop new skills in your current job. For example, offer to write a sales pitch or perform other tasks valued in your new field. Continuing education courses offered by your company can also help you make the transition. If you take advantage of these opportunities, you can make a career change without returning to study.
Changing careers can be daunting. However, don’t let your fears keep you from pursuing a more fulfilling path. Confront what’s holding you back, whether a personal issue or something else, and tackle it head-on. Get support from people close to you or professionals, and work through your doubts and insecurities. Once you’ve done that, you can set and achieve new goals.
Ready to interview for your new career?
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