The Right Reasons for Change
Introduction
The IT boom and the thriving economy have created many more job opportunities today than a decade and a half back. As a result it is easier for people to switch to a better job, and job hopping has become the norm than exception in the private sector.
Most people change jobs for better pay and other perks. However it is not always in your long term interests to change jobs too often. A few years down the line, too many jobs held for short periods reflect poorly on you. Prospective employers look at you suspiciously and you might lose out on a really good opportunity. Changing jobs for nothing else but a nominal raise of pay does not serve your career interests. So make sure that you are changing jobs for the right reasons. Given below are a few indicators.
Job Satisfaction
How satisfied are you with your job? Is it all about boring routine work? This could cause frustration and indifference. You might feel that your abilities are being wasted. This is a real reason why you should consider another job. It is not a good idea to continue for the sake of security/ stability.
Growth Opportunities
Challenging work is important for people to realize their potential and areas of strength. If your company cannot offer you such avenues due to either policy matters or presence of others who are given the creamier assignments, you might want to leave.
This is often the case with people working with large organizations with rigid rules. They find that smaller organizations have a more inter-disciplinary approach and avenues for multitasking.
The Corporate Culture
Some companies take HRD work more seriously while others don’t. The first kind invests in imparting training and continued growth for their employees. Some even support employees who pursue industry-related training from outside sources like universities or institutes. Does your company figure in this group? If not, you might feel that your opportunities for growth are restricted.
Courses and training programs are just one way human resources are developed. There are other elements like good work practices, interpersonal ties, avenues for international travel etc that offer exposure. These are beneficial to both your satisfaction and contribution to the company.
Facilities and Environment
It is quite natural that you will want to leave a company where you have little or no support and facilities. An unhealthy work atmosphere loaded with politics, poor infrastructure support, rigid/ restrictive rules etc belong to this category.
You would do well to quit as early as possible in this scenario. You cannot choose the people you have to work with, but there is always the possibility of going to an organization with a healthy culture.
Other Factors
Personal reasons cannot be discounted as an important factor why people change jobs. Some people might want to move to certain locations like a bigger city where they can take up part-time studies, or send their children to better schools. Some others want to change jobs to be with a spouse who is transferred or a parent who is ailing.
While these reasons cannot be ignored, it is still a sad truth that people who have very rigid expectations about these often find their career growth restricted.
To conclude, i t is never a good idea to stick to the first company that you happen to join, just for the sake of security. Change jobs when you have real concerns and choose your changes carefully. The saying ‘look before you leap’ is very true here.