You’ve spent 10+ years with the same employer and had hoped to stay until retirement. But you have a nagging suspicion that something isn’t right. Should you stay or should you go?
You certainly aren’t alone if statistics on job fulfillment are any clue. Here’s a note from the Society of Human Resource Management’s (SHRM’s) 2012 Job Satisfaction Survey: nearly 40% of employees expressed a lack of opportunity to use their skills and abilities on the job—and this is ranks as the most important aspect of job satisfaction, behind job security.
Here are some things to consider in making a sound decision regarding whether or not to stay or to move on.
- You’re doing the same work you’ve done for the last several years. There doesn’t seem to be any growth and you’ve been turned down for promotional opportunities without any clear justification.
- Your talents, strengths and expertise are not being recognized or valued.
- You don’t receive the same recognition, salary or perks that your peers enjoy.
- Others routinely get credit for your contributions.
- Your boss has “favorites” and/or seems to be avoiding you.
- You spend a lot of time complaining about your job to others.
- Your industry is in decline.
Many of my clients tell me that they’re looking to land a job that they can retire from. Is that a realistic goal in today’s business environment? Emphatically, no!
Highest earners are often let go in an effort to reduce overhead. If you aren’t growing professionally and continuing to add value, your job (whatever its level) is in jeopardy. If your company becomes an acquisition target and you’re at a senior level, you’re more likely than not to be replaced by the incoming CEO’s team.
If you’re at a lower level and can’t get on your supervisor’s radar, then you may be languishing in a position that adds little value and is ripe for termination when new technologies are added . . . sales are slumping . . . or a favored friend or relative needs a job . . . surprisingly, senior executives are not immune to this last scenario.
Knowing your value is essential in performing well in an interview and, ultimately, in getting hired. If you are not adding value, what will you have to share with a prospective employer who wants to know how your value exceeds what is spent on your payroll and benefits?
“Be prepared” isn’t just an inspirational motto for Boy Scouts, it offers wisdom for job seekers everywhere.
Ellie Vargo, MRW, CCMC
ev@noteworthyresume.com