7 questions to ask yourself before making a Career or Job change

“In a chronically leaking boat, energy devoted to changing vessels is more productive than energy devoted to patching leaks.”— Warren Buffett

It’s tempting to switch career gears when the going gets tough — or to fall prey to the shiny object syndrome when a new opportunity presents itself. Maybe you’ve been working a corporate job but feel it’s time to start freelancing. Or maybe you feel you’re in a professional rut and a change of scenery would do you some good. Whatever the case may be, there are certain questions you should ask yourself before switching careers/jobs.

Here are 7 questions you need to ask yourself to identify if you really need this career/job change:

What are my Career values?

What aspects of work are important to you? Is it the opportunity for growth and advancement, work-life balance, creativity, or making a positive impact? Understanding your career values will help you align your career choices with what truly matters to you.

Do I want a career change or just a new job?

It’s important to differentiate between wanting a complete career change and simply desiring a new job within your current field. Evaluate whether you are seeking a different industry, role, or both. Understanding your motivations will guide your decision-making process.

Do I have the skills to get the job I want?

Take some time to thoroughly research the requirements of the desired role and compare them to your current skill set. Consider your education, professional experience, and any additional training or certifications that might be needed. If there are gaps in your skills, determine whether you are willing to invest the time and effort required to acquire them.

How much money would make me happy?

It’s hard to be happy when you’re worried about meeting basic living expenses, but loads of cash and a stressful job with long hours aren’t that great, either. How much money do you need for the lifestyle you desire?

What compromises can I accept?

Every job or career has its trade-offs. What compromises are you willing to make? Are you open to accepting a lower salary in exchange for reduced working hours? How about taking on the risk of joining a startup to gain valuable experience and learn the latest skills in your field?

Could my current job meet these needs?

Sometimes the desire for a career change stems from feeling unfulfilled or dissatisfied with your current job. Before making a drastic move, take a closer look at your current position and evaluate whether it has the potential to meet your needs and goals. Consider factors such as growth opportunities, work-life balance, job satisfaction, and alignment with your long-term aspirations.

Am I otherwise happy?

Ask yourself if your discontentment is solely related to your job or if there are other underlying factors contributing to your desire for change. Consider your work environment, company culture, relationships with colleagues, and overall work-life balance. Assess whether your dissatisfaction extends beyond your job and if it could be addressed by making adjustments or seeking opportunities for growth and personal development within your current organization.

If you’re seeking further guidance and support in analyzing whether it’s the right time for you to make a career change, CareerTalks is here to assist you. We specialize in helping individuals understand their career options and develop strategies for success. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the resources and insights you need to make informed decisions about your professional journey.

To get a clearer picture of how we can help you with your career development, feel free to reach out to us at info@cxcareertalks.com or visit our website, CareerTalks. Explore our Career Enablement program designed to empower you in taking the next steps towards a fulfilling and rewarding career.