New Job for Career Growth?

Q. Dear Deb,

Since you revised my résumé, I have been at the same job for 3 ½ years. While I like the boss and the company, I feel there is no more room for advancement based on the company size.  I was promoted once, but that is about as far as I can go. It is not as much about salary for me as it is about challenge and opportunity to use my skills in a more complete way.  I know I should be thankful to have a job based on how the economy has shifted over the past few years, but I see things improving now and was wondering if you have any suggestions or advice for me to help me decide? 

- F.J., Long Beach, CA

A. Given that most of us spend anywhere from 30-50 hours at our job per week, even contemplating a position change is a BIG deal. While some workers have been thrust into career transition as a result of the economic downturn, many others are unhappy with their work situation and choose to leave on their own.  It is actually quite common, so you are not alone.

According to a poll conducted by Gallup, the most frequent reason for job change is career advancement or promotion (31.5%). The second reason cited is pay/benefits (22%). Additional reasons include lack of job fit, management/work environment, scheduling, and job security. Whatever the reasons, here are a few questions to ask yourself before taking the big leap.

1. Is the new opportunity I am exploring going to point my career in the direction I want to take based on my strengths, aptitudes, and preferences?
2. Will the travel requirements be feasible based on my family life?
3. How will the salary potential factor in?
4. What will the culture fit be like for me at this firm compared to my current firm? 
5. Am I likely to work well with my immediate supervisor? 
6. How will I feel if this person leaves? Will it matter or are the duties of the job more important?
7. How stable is the company where  I am interviewing?

 While it may seem alluring to change jobs, it is critical to remain objective when comparing and contrasting the roles.  While a new role may in fact advance your career, if the other pieces of the puzzle aren’t in place, you won’t be happy and the job change will not have been worth it. 

Of course, staying at the same job due to fear of the unknown is not a solution either. Sometimes you have to take the plunge and go for it even if the situation turns out to be a learning experience more than anything else.  You can’t predict the outcome of every situation.  Do your due diligence and then make the best decision possible. 

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If you have a question for Deb, please email debra@careersdonewrite.com. The Ask Deb column appears every Friday on the Careers Done Write website blog at http://careersdonewrite.com/blog.