To Stay or To Go!

We are nearing the end of 2021 and I know what many of you might be thinking,

“Do I see myself working another year at my current company?”

“Is this really where I want to be?”

“Am I growing professionally towards my long-term career goals?”

These are just a few of the questions many people ask themselves at the start of a new year.?In my twenty-five years of working in the executive search industry, I have heard just about everything you can imagine.?The stroke of midnight on December 31st, signals a fresh start and new beginnings.?It’s a chance to clean the slate and start anew! This can be exciting for some and terrifying for others who have put off making some tough decisions about their careers.?The holidays and vacations are over and it’s about to be business as usual for months to come with more work than time off in the forecast.

Many workers have put off making career decisions because they were waiting on a year-end bonus, raise, or promotion. In my experience, it seems every year more people make a job change between January and May. I believe it’s due to the factors above, along with the emotional turmoil of making a job change.

The Boss?– “I don’t like my boss.” This is the #1 reason I see people leave their current company.

No Future/No Growth?- “I don’t see a future for me here.” “I don’t like the culture.” “I feel undervalued and overworked.” “I’m underpaid and not challenged.”

We are all in one of two camps, either you are excited about your career path and future, or you are online right now trying to determine how to start your job search and how you can get your resume in front of the right people without compromising your current job.

If you are one of the happy ones, then take this time to be thankful and count your blessings as you have found professional contentment and satisfaction, which is something many struggle with their entire lives. It’s a big deal and something not to be taken for granted. Walk into work this week with a smile and a solid work ethic and spread the positivity!?Don’t listen to the barrage of recruiters and opportunities that will be swirling all around you, as it is only a distraction. Focus your efforts on being the best employee you can be. Remember the grass isn’t always greener when you take the time to water your own lawn.

If you are in the other boat, then it’s time to get to work on finding a better opportunity, but don’t be in a hurry. Instead, figure out what you really want to do, and let that guide your choices. Making a job change is not just about going from one company to another. It’s deeper than that and involves feelings and emotions, which are critical to long-term purpose and satisfaction. We spend more time at work than any other activity, so choose wisely! I would caution against “chasing the money” and advise job seekers to think long and hard about the next move. Take the time to envision what you really want and make decisions which will lead you to your career goals. Let us help you over the holidays.

Written by: Mike Kittelson?

President of Trinity Search Group?

www.trinitysearchgroup.com