How do you know when it is time to quit your job? I have been asked that question a lot over the years. The truth is there are many reasons why you should strongly think about leaving an employer and going elsewhere.
Knowing the reasons why you want to leave is more important than you might think. I used to do an exercise with candidates that prove this point. I would often ask them why they wanted to look for a new job. After hearing a few responses, I would often drill down a bit for the one “big reason.” I would write that reason on the resume and circle it.
What often happens in our career is that we go through peaks and valleys. I know people who have for years wanted to make a move, but have instead let fear rule the day. They choose to stay in their circle of comfort. Meanwhile, their spirit remains crushed. They are like a boat tied to the dock. Boats were built to be on the open sea, not tied to a dock somewhere.
So, when a candidate of mine doubted a new job offer, I would often take them back to the main reason they wanted to leave. It was a good reminder for them that they were making the right decision.
3 Reasons You Should Consider Quitting Your Job
Here are 3 prevailing reasons you should begin to look for another job.
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1. When you are behind the learning curve. Are you challenged to grow in your current position? Are you moving closer to or further from your passions? Are your real strengths being activated? While you must take control for your own growth, there does come a time to ask yourself whether your current employer is encouraging you to grow.
2. When you are behind the earning curve. I really hate to admit this, but it is true the majority of the time. In today’s current culture, the longer you stay with one company, the further you can get behind in compensation. Money certainly should not be our own motivator. However, I have spent close to ten years observing salaries. You often receive your biggest monetary increase when you switch employers.
3. When you are behind the leading curve. Leadership is influence. Do you still have influence at your current company? Remember, you do not have to have people under you to have influence. Do you have any influence with those above you in rank? Do you have influence with your peers? Is there any self-evident influence with those under you?
How do you know when to quit your job? If one of the three reasons above is present in your work life, then you should consider it. If two or more are in your work life, then you should get a job search plan in place. Remember, you are the leader of your career.
Question: What do you think are good reasons for quitting your job? Please comment below.
