It’s a big decision. One that will impact your life and your family’s. Changing jobs or career direction can be a major life change. Don’t make the leap unprepared. Before you move into a new job or career, make sure you’re making the decision for the right reasons.

Why Do You Want to Make the Switch?

The answer to this question may seem obvious. But asking yourself why you want to change jobs or take your career in a new direction is often not that simple.

It’s time to be honest about your hankering for a new title:

• Is the root of your problem in your current work environment? Maybe your co-workers or supervisor are challenging.
• Is it the type of work itself? Maybe you don’t enjoy your work anymore.
• Have you outgrown your current job? Maybe you’re ready to stretch into new skill sets and job duties.
• Is the true source of your discontent your job? Maybe you’ll land your dream job and still feel unhappy.

While it’s normal to want to move on from a job that doesn’t fulfill you, knowing the true reason is crucial. Otherwise, you risk moving on and having the same issues in a new office.

How Does the New Opportunity Compare to Your Current Job?

To decide if a career move makes sense, compare your options point by point. Salary will most likely be at the top of your list, but don’t overlook other factors affecting your long-term success and satisfaction.

Here are some items to consider:

• Total compensation: This goes beyond salary. The new job may pay more in salary, but its benefits package may pale in comparison to your current job. Healthcare coverage, retirement contributions, educational reimbursement and paid time off are among the factors to weigh.
• Role expectations: In many positions, your workweek may extend beyond the typical 40 hours. Ask the potential employer about expectations for the role. It could be the salary bump doesn’t look as great when you’re expected to work 60 hours a week.
• Culture shock: It’s true you won’t be able to learn everything about company culture during the interview process, but you can look for clues. If you’re coming from a laid-back, small business environment to a structured, large corporation, reflect on what the change means for you. Will you thrive in the new environment? Or does the mere thought of the new office space give you chills?

What’s the Cost of Staying?

No doubt about it. Changing jobs can be stressful and scary. But staying in a job that leaves you drained and miserable at the end of the workday is no less stressful. The effects on your well-being can even be scary.

A few signs indicating it’s time to sharpen your resume:

• The feeling of dread that accompanies your arrival in the employee parking garage. If you get headaches or other physical symptoms upon arriving at the office, a job change may be less stressful for you in the long-run.
• The feeling of being stuck with nowhere to go. If you’ve worked your way into a dead-end at your current company, an exit plan might be in order.
• The feeling you can’t escape your work. If the stress looms even at home and on the weekends, a change may be exactly what you need.

Ready to Make Your Next Career Move? Let the Experts Help

With offices in Portland, Eugene and Bend, Oregon, Staffing Partners helps talented, hardworking individuals like you find the work you want, where you want. Why wait? Your new career is waiting. Search for your new job today.