6 Questions - Are you leaving for the right reasons.

Many of you have or will be leaving your current job to seek better opportunities to advance your career.  Owning your career and taking advantage of new opportunities is something you should always evaluate. But are you leaving for the right reasons?

The “Great Resignation” is clearly underway! Whether driven by Covid and the new work place, low unemployment or your desire to retire or reinvent your career, you may be thinking about leaving your job to seek new opportunities. 

So, when do you know it is time to leave? Answer these six (6) simple questions:

Industry – An industry should support your long-term career ambition. An industry should be relevant and expanding. Does the industry you are in provide you opportunities to build a 30-40 year career?

Company – Your company should align with your values and provide the culture that nourishes your career. Stay close to your company’s leadership, its commitments and the markets it serves. Company’s will have their ups and downs. Do you believe enough in the company’s mission and core values to prosper even in the hard times?

Boss – Most people leave their job because they don’t like or work well with their immediate boss. Your boss should be clear with assignments, support you in those assignments and communicate well the overall ambitions of the company. Do you work well with your manager and do you get the support you need to be successful?

Underutilized – Your career will advance best if you are challenged and contributing to the highest level of your ability. Companies and managers need to understand what you can contribute and give you assignments and opportunities that challenge you.  Do you have or can you see the opportunities to fully utilize your capabilities?

Valued – You will be most productive if you feel valued for your contributions. You may not always hit that “home run”, but you should be recognized for your contributions on an ongoing basis. Do you feel valued by your company, manager and colleagues?

Fairly Compensated – If you are leaving only for more money, you are leaving for the wrong reason. Leaving only for money seldom will lead to more fulfilling career opportunities. Compensation is important, but look at the big picture including salary, benefits, bonus and other incentives.  Are you fairly compensated for your contributions?

Leaving your current employer and colleagues can be scary. We are in an environment where career opportunities are available, but be selective in when and why you seek your new opportunity. If you leave, leave for the right reasons.

See more career advice in “Own Your Career-No One Else Will”, by Paul R. Goudreault. Available on Amazon and at your local book store.