Have you lost the excitement for your work? This may be one of the signs that you need a new job – but how do you know whether you’d be quitting too early or if it’s really time for a change? Whilst many jobs start out exciting and engaging, there is always a chance that things can take a turn; and in that case, noticing those red flags when they appear is key to bowing out at the best time.

So, to give you a jumping-off point, here is everything you need to know about when to leave your job and how to do it right.

Identify if the Problem is More Than Temporary

Leaving your job is a big decision, so you need to first ask yourself if the reasons you’re looking elsewhere are systemic issues, or if they could possibly be temporary and resolve themselves. Growing as a professional is bound to come with its own set of discomforts – whether that’s the learning curve, not being on the same page as management or any number of other challenges. Leaving too early may end up having a greater impact on your career in the long run, so sometimes it’s best to wait it out.

On the other hand, sometimes the problem can be deep-rooted, so it’s important to watch out for signals that indicate it’s more than just temporary discomfort. This could be anything from a nagging sense of distress in the role to a regular underperformance or a constant lack of motivation. If you are experiencing any of these signs, it may be time to take action.

Look for Solutions

Many workplace issues can be solved by the simple act of communication. First, you will need to think about the current situation and what is causing you to feel negatively about the role so that you have a clear picture of the areas you need to address.

The way we perceive our circumstances doesn’t always mesh with reality and it may be the case that the job seems worse than it is. One way to gain a more objective view is to look at your last two performance reviews; these will give you a clear idea of whether this role is working for you on a performance-basis. However, they will not be able to give you the nuance of an in-person chat, which is why it can be very beneficial to sit down for a frank discussion with your manager to explain your concerns and see how your perception matches up with their side of the story.  

During this discussion, you can work with your manager to find ways to resolve the issue, which could be anything from changing the scope of your role to undergoing additional training. However, keep in mind that not all problems can be fixed. A role may present great opportunities, but if the environment (for example) is toxic or you simply don’t mesh well with other personalities on your team, then staying there will ultimately do more harm than good.

Plan Your Next Step

If you have tried all the avenues and your role has still not improved, it’s probably time to make a change. However, it’s important to plan your next career move to avoid burning bridges and ensure you have the best opportunity to secure the right role.

Whilst it can be very tempting to put in your notice right away, it’s worth thinking about how this will impact the bigger picture of your career. For example, many potential employers favour candidates that are currently employed, and by walking out on your existing position, you may be left in a lull during that job search period. It isn’t impossible to find a new role while unemployed, but it can tilt the field somewhat – and having stable pay gives you the luxury to take your time and avoid jumping at the first offer that comes along.

By continuing to go to work and taking it on a day-by-day basis, you can keep your options open and allow yourself a chance to gain further perspective and build a solid plan for the way forward. Keep in mind, however, there are circumstances where leaving sooner is the better option, so always use your best judgement when determining the best time to resign and seek a second opinion from a recruiter, career coach or mentor (outside the business) if needed.

Summary

So, after all of this, when’s the right time to leave your job? The answer all depends on you – but speaking with a recruiter can give you clarity, as well as an advantage for your next job search. We can help with career advice and finding your next opportunity if you have decided it’s time to leave.

If you’re looking to make a change and would like to discuss your options, contact our team of Indigenous recruitment specialists First People Recruitment Solutions.