The Great Resignation: Are you thinking of leaving too?

• According to the 2021 Work Trend Index by Microsoft, 41% of the global workforce were considering quitting or changing professions this year.
• In a recent survey done by career site Monster, 95% of workers are currently considering changing jobs, with 92% willing to switch industries to land a new position.
• A study from HR software company Personio of workers in the UK and Ireland showed 38% of those surveyed planned to quit in the next 6 months to a year.
• In the US, according to the Department of Labor, more than 4 million people quit their jobs - the biggest spike on record.

Then there's you. You were probably worried about your job at the start of the pandemic, and then you've managed to pull through, whether you've managed to stay at your current job or you'd found a new job.

Recently, perhaps you've noticed a particularly large number of departures in your company lately. Hasn't there been an unusually large number of farewells recently? You've also noticed that many people in your network had just started new positions, and you've liked and congratulated them on LinkedIn.

Ah! Now you're starting to realize it...

Yes. It is happening.

Behold, the "Great Resignation".

Q2 2021 statistics have not come out yet for Singapore, but I have noticed many in my network taking up new roles. I have also noticed headhunters awakening from their lockdown slumber and actively post openings.

It's looking positive for job seekers and hiring companies, but concerning for companies with high turnovers.

But since you've given thought about resigning, let's talk about what you can do for yourself.

Take a step back. Reflect and think objectively.

It is very easy to feel like resigning - a bad day at work, working on something you dread, seeing a job ad for a similar job that pays more, the lack of connection with your co-workers, and so on. However, it is important to take control of your emotions, and really try to think objectively whether it is indeed beneficial for you to leave your current job. Is there something you can do instead, that will change that mindset? Talking to your boss about your goals, likes/dislikes, etc? A lateral move within the organization? Taking a week-long undisturbed break?

Identify what your true intention is.

The pandemic has given us a lot more time to reflect on our career and our lives, which is a big factor behind the numerous resignations. Perhaps you want a job that allows you more flexibility to spend time with your children or aging parents. Maybe you feel like you've been underpaid and need a pay increment to match your efforts. Perhaps you feel like you're heading towards a career dead-end and need a change to re-ignite your career. Whatever it is, be clear about what you want and how you can achieve it.

Always be prepared.

Just because you may not be looking for a change doesn't mean you should keep your resume, LinkedIn profile, and job site information updated. You never know who's looking! You want to be ready when opportunity knocks - and opportunity does not knock very often. Make your own luck.

If you're thinking of resigning, then all the more you should be prepared! Ensure your employment history and achievements are up to date. Get more recommendations in your LinkedIn profile if you can. If you have a portfolio, make sure that it is updated with all your latest work.

Keep networking!

Even if you live in a place where there are still restrictions or even lock downs due to the pandemic, you are still able to network! And you don't need a skype or zoom call! Smaller gestures such as liking or commenting on their LinkedIn posts or dropping them a message over WhatsApp helps keep you in touch. This will keep you top-of-mind in the event of an opportunity. You may also end up having a great conversation with them.

Know your worth! Don't put yourself down.

The job market is picking up and companies are starting to hire more. Always know your worth. Don't discount your value. Companies may try to offer a lower salary but if you know your value and do the research (e.g. Glassdoor) you will get what you deserve! It doesn't hurt to ask for higher but don't be greedy or unrealistic.

Always keep your skills up to date.

Fake it till you make it does not work. You need to put in the hard work. If you're not in the industry you desire to be in, make sure you're ready for it when the time comes. If you're not in the position that you set out to be in make sure your knowledge is relevant so that it is easier to go back. Take courses, do some self-training (there are plenty of YouTube tutorials), read books, do volunteer work, get coaching. Sometimes you may need that little extra X-Factor just to stand out from the rest of the candidates.

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Looking for a career change? Want to know how to secure that dream job? I've personally helped and referred a few people who managed to achieve career goals, so this comes highly recommended! Let Careerships help you out! Contact them for a free consult!