For the past three years, Bernard Nkizingabo has been a marketer. He thought he was happy with his income and, more importantly, his working environment, until he received a job offer with a higher salary and status. Now he’s debating whether or not he should go, take a chance, and go on this new journey. Or, if he should continue working in his familiar and comfortable setting. His biggest question however, is whether now is the perfect time for a job switch. Do you share Nkizingabo’s concern? What would you do if you were in his position? Robert Walters in an article, “Signs it is time to change jobs,” notes that there are certain indicators in line with one’s interests, goals, enthusiasm that everyone should not ignore. Some of the signs described in the article include feeling pressured and exhausted all of the time, not believing in the company as much as one used to, personal skills not matching the current function or feeling as though one has outgrown it, and feeling invisible in the workplace. Nkizingabo, on the other hand, insists that these are not his feelings at his current job and workplace. “I’m passionate about what I do. I am motivated to go to work every day and enjoy the companionship of my colleagues,” he states. “But I have ambitions and I need to grow,” he admits later in the chat with The New Times. “Plus, the money is excellent,” he adds. His statement suggests that one may be driven not only by unpleasant feelings about one’s current position, but also by hopes for one’s future self. Here are some points to consider while you evaluate yourself and determine whether it is the ideal time to change jobs or not: Compare your current role and the new one You will need to consider what you like about your current position. Think back to when you first started; what were your motivations back then? Was it money? Career interests or something else? Now, what would be the motivation in wanting to undertake the new role being offered to you? If you weigh, what means the most to you between the two roles. You better be honest with yourself! Your strengths and weaknesses Are you experienced in either of the domains? If not, then what does it require for you to undertake the challenge? Are you in position to do whatever it takes? To do the supplement studies? To look for an internship or attend some workshops? Again, you will need to be vulnerably honest with yourself. But also give space to some confidence, if you want it, then be bold enough about it! What are your core values? Nkizingabo emphasised the fact that he blended in very well with the environment at his workplace. One should make sure to assess their core values and principles and what exactly the company is in need of. Stay true to your inner self. How long have you stayed in your current position? Employers may not say it out loud but they seek “loyalty” in their employees. How long you have sustained your past roles might say a lot about how long you are likely to stay in the new company. If it’s less than a year, then you probably would want to wait a little bit longer. But, what do your guts tell you? Then go ahead and do it. If you want to switch jobs, it could be because you don’t like what you’re doing now or because you need to upgrade; either way, do a good job on your own assessment and thank me later.
