Making the Decision to Leave a Stagnant Role
Making the Decision to Move out of a Stagnant Job
Often we flippantly think about our careers in the context of doing a two year shift here, another 2 year shift there as if our professional development will follow a discrete and clear path. Yet when the time comes to make a change, it’s never easy. Or maybe even it’s not easy to realise when you should or should not change jobs. Here are a few grounded thoughts to help ease anxiety you may have when it comes to thinking about starting the process of making a change in your career. Whether you’re at the stage of writing your notice letter or just about to start poking around open opportunities.
When is it time to switch roles
There are any number of reasons why you might want to up sticks and change roles. These could be rooted in a bad working culture, personal reasons or maybe simply out of a desire for career growth. Whatever the reason, it's important to realise that your feelings are valid. You don’t just stagnate in a role, you suddenly realise one day that you are not growing and thriving because you are not being given the means or motivation to do so. Even if there is a good culture, team and working situation your larger career goals are more important.
The moment you feel doubts about remaining in your role, there are a couple questions that you should ask yourself before you leave.
Why am I unhappy in this position?
Have I felt this way for a while or is this new?
Where do I see my career progressing to over the horizon?
Think long and hard about these questions. If you can satisfactorily answer all of them, it's time to make a move. Sample answers might be the following (in the order of questioning above).
“I feel that the work I am doing is meaningless and contributes nothing major to the organisation.”
“Have felt this way for a small while, but it's only getting to me now.”
“I could use the skills I have learned in this role in a more Senior or Design based capacity.”
Give your answers as honestly as you can and review them carefully. Question them in ways such as “could I just ask my manager for new work?” or “am I able to ask for a promotion?”. If you still feel that your answers are valid, it may be time to start job searching!
Remember, leaving your post is a completely normal and accepted reality of the working world. If it isn’t where you’re working, even more reason to leave! Explaining it to a manager is indeed a daunting task that never gets easier. However, you can always use the reasoning and rationale that we figured out previously to justify your exit if you are at a loss for words. You never know, saying it could result in some positive changes that may urge you to reconsider!
Also, if you’re looking for new opportunities (which you probably are if you’ve gotten this far), visit nbxtalent.com/jobs for open and exciting vacancies in Ireland!