When The Grass Needs To Be Greener

Let's face it. Sometimes it's just time to move on. Loyalty and longevity in a company and getting enjoyment out of your job is amazing. When you are doing great things with wonderful people, it's one of the greatest sources of happiness in life. There is almost no greater sense of professional satisfaction then loving where you earn your dough. But, what about when you don't? Sometimes it's just time to move on.

We often say, " You shouldn't be running from something, but running to something". Yeah well, that's great. But the truth of the matter is this; your working life can be hard and draining and sometimes, it just plain sucks. That's a reality and anyone who has worked in at least one crummy job can relate.

I remember many years ago, when I was stuck in a job where I made decent money, worked close to home, and really liked my co-workers. Three great reasons to stay. But the truth was, I had been there too long. I knew it. My boss knew it. I'm sure it came out in my attitude. I complained over and over to my then boyfriend (now husband) how much I "hated this job. I don't want to be here anymore. I need a change." Blah blah blah! Finally, one evening when we were walking home from a night out, and I was singing my usual "woe is me" tune, he turned to me and said this. " You know I love you and would do anything to make sure you're happy, but I honestly can't take this conversation anymore. Either do something about it or shut the _____up".  Wait!! What? Yeah, for a brief moment or two I was mad and hurt at his response. How dare he tell me this. But as quickly as the anger came, it left. Because he was right.  Long story short, I was out of there in a month. I just needed someone at that time to give me permission to find my career happiness somewhere else. And it was the most pivotal moment thus far in my career journey. Did I find my dream job or jobs right away. No. Not at all. There was a lot of trial and error along the way. But it gave me the courage to start looking and explore. To stumble, falter, but keep searching. And that was/is true success in itself.

There are so many reasons we might want to leave a job, and it can be frustrating for candidates when they are invited to interview and are then asked the dreaded question "so why do you want to leave your current position?". This sets off the fear alarm in most of us. How do you explain, without raising a bazillion red flags? Do you tell the truth? "My boss is awful". "I don't make what I'm worth". "I am bored and need to be re-energized". The list can go on and on and I try to be very open minded when folks come to us looking for that change. So, how do you communicate this without sounding like the disgruntled employee? My best bet is to set up an initial phone chat with the Talent Director or HR representative before coming in for an interview. Talk about all the things about your job that you have loved over the years. And the things you wish were different. How you tried to implement change but couldn't. Why you're ready for a change.  You don't need to trash your boss or your company. That's never a good idea, as you'll come off as a complainer or trouble maker (as well as a bridge burner). But make sure your reasons of wanting to go somewhere else are honest and real to you. Being true and genuine with yourself and the people you're speaking with, will only benefit you in the long run. 

So, if you're happy where you are and can envision yourself at your current job for years to come, congratulations!! You've earned it. But if the bloom has come off the proverbial rose, ask yourself if maybe you could be really happy elsewhere? And if the answer "yes" without hesitation, give yourself permission to go find those greener pastures. Because you deserve it. And they do exist. I know first hand!