When we get our first job, all of us have certain ambitions. Some want to become the next CEO of the company, others never want to miss a promotion, while some people look forward to receiving salary hikes and bonuses at every opportunity. But, this isn’t always the case. In fact, with the tough economy and increased competition it has become much harder. But this doesn’t mean you have to stick to the same job or position. So, what are the tell-tale signs that you need to be scouting for another job?
No Career Progression
When was the last time you got promoted? How many of your colleagues who previously were your subordinates now boss you around? If you have never been promoted in the last three or four years then you should start cleaning your drawer. Even in the tough economy effort is still appreciated. Lack of promotion simply means your effort is not really valuable, or the company isn’t growing.
No Personal Growth
Has your status quo changed or is still the same? Is your personal profile or resume the same as it were when you joined the company? Job satisfaction is more than living comfortably or maintaining a certain status quo. It also focuses on personal growth. A good job should develop you personally and not just career-wise.
You Lack Motivation
If you find it a daily struggle to go to work because you lack motivation, or least concerned with what happens to the company, you should have already left the job. Lack of motivation or ambition means that you have lost the drive or focus in life. And there is nothing worse as living without focus or ambition as it leads with complacency. You shouldn’t just be okay with what the job throws at you.
High Turnover
Have you noticed a trend where there is mass exodus? The people you joined with are no longer there or management is always facing shortage of staff. If you do, then it’s high time you smelt the coffee. High turnover means two things; the job isn’t right, or there are better job opportunities out there. Start packing your bags, polish your resume and start job hunting, seriously.
Frequent Restructuring
Yes, you may be among the top managers, or maybe you are considered a loyal employee considering you’ve seen the company grew over the decade. But, when the re-structuring axe comes down no one is safe. This is even more worrying if it’s happening regularly. The best way to avoid the cut is leaving the job for a safer one.
The above are some reasons that should signal your exit from your current job sooner-rather-than-later. One key reason that holds people back from making the bold move is complacency. They start feeling OK in the OK job. They believe that the time is not yet right and they need more time. Other people believe they already missed the train. The truth is that unless we get out of the comfort zone, we will become that guy who held the same job (though he/she never liked it) for decades.
