Should you leave your current job?

When you start to get frustrated with your job, sometimes it is easy to think it would be a great idea to leave and find another job.  This attitude is very prevalent amongst job-hoppers, who quickly switch jobs as a result of boredom, frustration, or a perceived, or actual conflict with other staff members or management.  But sometimes it is important to have a serious think about staying in a job, rather than leaving – and below is some valid points you need to consider as to why it might be a good idea to stay, rather than leave.

Being perceived as a job-hopper can be detrimental to your career

In a booming economy, if you are a skilled worker, then it is probably not going to be that detrimental if you have a record of job-hopping.  However, as the job market retracts (as with the current market), it will be more difficult to secure a new job and employers will prefer to employ someone with a stable work history to someone with an unstable work history.  If you have been through several jobs in the last year or so, you need to seriously consider staying put.

Excessive personal debt

If your finances are stretched to the limit, (mortgage, credit card debt, personal loans), moving jobs is a much greater risk.  Obviously if you can secure a higher paying position, then great, but make sure that the job is secure, the costs associated with taking the new job is minimal and that you are confident that the probation period is not going to be a problem for you.

No job to go to

It is not always a good idea to leave, without another job to go to.  Even assuming that you don’t need to work to make a living, or you can cover costs for an extended period of time – generally it is easier to find work, if you are in a job, rather than out of a job.  Plus it is way more stressful finding a job, when you are effectively unemployed, so it is best not to leave without a new job, unless there are extenuating circumstances at work, or at home.

No idea what you want to do

Unless you have a really good understanding of what you want to do, then don’t leave, just because you are bored or frustrated, as otherwise you could end up in another similar job, or situation.  Make sure you are clear as to what sort of job you want, and if necessary, get career counselling.

Is the job that bad?

Before you leave, carefully consider your current position and assess your options.  So often people convince themselves that they are being underpaid, but in reality are being paid the average market rate.  You also need to weigh up the various options, as it might be the job, rather than the organisation that is making you disillusioned or bored with your lot.  Remember, a change won’t necessarily mean that you end up in a better work environment or position, so do your homework before you leave.