New Year’s resolution….time for a new job? Yes folks it’s that time of the year when New Year’s resolutions should have started to take shape: gym memberships increase with people looking to improve their health and well-being, boxes start to be ticked on bucket lists, people quit smoking and/or drinking and we long for a better work life balance. Then there is the ever popular New Year = new job resolution. If January is anything to go by then expect 2014 to be a very busy year for recruitment particularly in the digital space. While the perception may be that Quarter 1 is a quiet period in terms of hiring, 2014’s version has something to say about that!
But before looking into your next opportunity that is presented to you, take a moment to consider 5 key factors before accepting the next offer.
1. What is the reason that you’re looking to move on?
As recruitment consultants we are often given specific reasons why candidates are looking for their next opportunity such as poor work-life balance, poor company structure, issues with management etc. To ultimately see them accept a counter-offer from their current employer or accept a role with another organisation that has a similar environment to the one that are leaving and looking to avoid. When you’re speaking to potential employers or even current employers, take a second to think about why you’re looking to move on from your current position. The grass may just happen to be greener on the other side.
2. Managers & colleagues
During the interview process you are often given the opportunity to meet future and direct line managers. This can give you great insight into the company culture and a chance to get to know people within the company. As the interviewee you want to make your greatest first impression, but this is also a chance for potential employers to leave a lasting first impression on you as well. Each time you meet with a prospective employer or colleague, ask yourself “is this an organisation I can see myself working at for a long time?”
3. The next job and the job after that
When considering any new job or a future employer, it is important to not just look at the short term benefits but also the medium and long term goals. When you’re weighing up whether or not to take the next opportunity, think about what’s next? When looking at more than one opportunity, make sure you consider the job after your next job with equal importance to see if it aligns with your long term goals and plans.
4. You vs. current employees
You have spent time, paid your dues and worked your backside off with your current employer and become quite established and recognised within the organisation. When you join a new employer you will inevitably be competing with others (potentially on the same level as you) who have already their reputation up within the company. On the other side of the coin if you have done all that you can to be recognised or receive that promotion you have been longing for and feel like you’re stuck, then it could be the right time to consider your options.
5. Remuneration
There’s no doubt that the remuneration package is always a deciding factor in a role, but this needs to be approached appropriately. If are asked to consider a pay-cut, make sure it is for the right reason. You may take a small financial hit now, which could lead to a better tomorrow. It is also recommended that you do your research in the market to see what you’re worth. You don’t want to put a future employer off but having high and unrealistic pay demands. Make sure you weigh the role and remuneration up to find the right balance.
Before accepting your next offer or before diving into the timely nature of interviews, make sure you consider the points above. One of the above points may be more significant to you than others, but it is paramount to consider of all them before taking that leap of faith. Don’t jump at the first option that comes your way and be patient. 2014 is shaping up to be a year of opportunity, choose yours carefully.
Photo Source: ABC Australia ushers in 2014
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