It’s not every day that we get offered a new job. Sure, we might be secretly looking for something else, but it takes a lot of nerve to actually go for it. After all, there are so many considerations to take into account. Many jobs demand a change in lifestyle. The commute, the hours, and the change in pay are just a few of the reasons for this. But ultimately, timing is everything. Are you really ready to take that leap?
Bye Bye Bad Boss
If you really hate your boss, it’s no wonder you’ve been looking for ways to escape! Of course, personal relationships are tricky to manage in any workplace. There is no guarantee that your next role will be free of bullying bosses. Don’t forget that there are ways you can manage the difficult working relationships you’re currently experiencing.
If you are a union member, chances are there is someone you can talk to that will help you with any kind of workplace dispute. Start there, but try your best to step back from your personal feelings as much as possible. Most HR departments will encourage you to try to resolve your differences together in an informal way. This can be very uncomfortable, but sometimes it’s all that is needed to get your boss to back off.
If your boss is guilty of any inappropriate workplace behaviour such as bullying, sexual advances, discrimination, or inappropriate demands, your HR department must take it seriously. Don’t walk away from your current job until you have exhausted every avenue to manage this relationship. If nothing else, you need a good reference at some point.
Financial Woes
Most of us feel that we’re not paid enough for our jobs. You may also be having trouble managing your personal finances right now. Finding a better-paid job could definitely be on your radar. However, you may find yourself in more difficulties if you leave your current job right now.
Mortgages and other loan applications often demand that you have been in your employment for at least a year. If you move job now but need to renew your mortgage soon, this could be a problem. The main reason for this is the probationary period you’ll be under for the first 6 to 12 months of your new job. Your new employer can simply terminate your job with no notice during that time for no reason. Job security is essential here.
Don’t forget that you know the ins and outs of your current company. You don’t know if a new company is hitting financial difficulties that will see lay-offs as soon as you start your job. Do your homework and check their returns before you accept the job. Make sure you’re aware of the probation period and negotiate it down to as little time as possible. Also, as tempting as it is to take a holiday between ending one role and starting the next, consider the difference in pay dates too.
Commuting Hours
Nobody likes a commute. If your new job is going to increase the time you are travelling this should raise some concerns. It will eat into your home life as well as your personal time. Most employers don’t consider your commute as part of your working hours, but you should. After all, you can’t do much for yourself sat in traffic driving to your job. Perhaps you’ll need to move house as well as companies?
The new commute may cost you more money too. You might even need to buy a car, or change at a different station on your way in. Parking charges will undoubtedly be different. Then, of course, is the cost of lunch. If your new company is out of the city centre, you may have to eat in their canteen, or travel into town each lunch hour – more travel!
Promotion Opportunities
If you’ve been at your current company for a while, you know you’re due for a promotion. Starting with a new company could put you out of the promotion running for a long time. Is there room for career growth at this new company or would you have to change companies yet again to get that boost? You may also want to consider if there is ample opportunity for you to shine in this new role.
Friends
If you’ve made some good friends over the years from your most recent employment, it could be quite tough to let them go. Perhaps you’re quite a sociable character, and you’ve never had trouble meeting new people. But if you’re quite shy and struggle to make quality friendships, be a little more wary about leaving. We all need a lot of support, especially when we’re starting somewhere new. Think about how you’ll settle in. What is the new office layout like? Will there be a mentorship program available or social activities to get involved with?
Flexibility
Let’s face it, things change. Chances are you’ve been hunting for another job because your current one simply isn’t flexible enough to help you through those changes. Is your new one going to be flexible enough to let you live the life you want? Kids get older, and so do parents. There may come times when you need to be able to work from home to act as a carer. Can you do that in your new job?
Benefits
Of course, one of the most attractive things about a company is the benefits package they offer. Have you fully taken advantage of your current one? Do you know exactly what pension you’ll get, bonuses, or other allowances with the new one? It’s worth doing your homework here because all those extras can add up to a substantial value.
Changing jobs will always have advantages and disadvantages. Sometimes it’s best to tough it out where you are. Other times, you’re absolutely right to jump ship. Try a pros and cons list to see where you would be better off.