It can be difficult to leave a job you’ve been with for a long time. After all, you may have developed strong relationships with your colleagues and built a deep understanding of the company culture.
If you’ve been at your job for five years or more, it may be time to start considering a change. Here are a few signs to take into consideration:
1. You Are No Longer Being Paid What You Are Worth
Chances are, if you’ve been at the same job for more than a few years, you’re not being paid what you’re worth. With the cost of living increasing and wages staying relatively stagnant, it’s no wonder that so many people feel like they’re not getting ahead. If you’re just barely getting by, it might be time to get on the job search.
2. Your Job is No Longer Challenging
If you’re no longer being challenged at work, it may be time for a change. You’re likely not performing at your best if you’re bored and unchallenged. Consider looking for a position outside of your comfort zone to help you grow as a professional.
3. Your Skills Are No Longer Being Utilized
If you’re not using the skills you acquired to get the job, it may be time to move on. Skills atrophy without practice, so if your current position isn’t utilizing the skill set you’ve spent years perfecting, it might be time for a change.
This is especially true if you’re in a job with no opportunity for advancement. If you’re not being challenged or growing in your role, it can be easy to become complacent and restless. If you feel like your skills are going to waste at your current job, start looking for a new one.
4. You are Constantly Stressed and Unhappy with Your Work
If going to work every day feels like a struggle, and you’re constantly stressed and unhappy, that’s a sign that it’s time to make a change. A job should make you feel good, not bad. If yours is doing the latter, it’s time to start looking for something else.
5. There are Major Changes at Your Place of Employment
If your current organization is going through major shifts (e.g., downsizing, restructuring), it may be time to leave. While it isn’t always possible to control the circumstances of our jobs, sometimes it is necessary to make a change in order to maintain our own well-being.
Any of the above situations indicate that it might be time to start considering a change. Of course, leaving a job you’ve been at for years can be a big decision, but sometimes it’s necessary to progress professionally and personally.
If you’re not sure whether or not to make a move, consult with an outsourced accounting services provider who can hold your hand through the process.
Jim Weinstein, Career Counselor and Founder of DC Life Counseling, adds, “‘You’re getting pretty clear signs that your boss doesn’t like you.’ The reason may be bogus, prejudiced, or totally unrelated to your performance (she feels threatened even though I have 1/2 her experience; he doesn’t like the way I dress; they’re racist). No matter – if you are not liked, the odds of your getting ahead are virtually nil, unless you can create a positive relationship with someone who can overrule or trump your immediate boss’ evaluation of you.”
About the guest post author:
Dr. Anthony Decoste is the President and CEO of Global Virtuoso, an outsourcing company that specializes in the delivery of outsourced accounting services, finance, and aviation support services for businesses of all sizes. He has over 20 years of international management experience and has a proven track record of helping companies cut costs and improve efficiencies.