Find a Better Job. Michael Dolan

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Whatever the situation, changing jobs-whether moving to another department, company or profession-is a reality of the modern workplace. Labor statistics show that young people entering the workforce today will likely change jobs seven to 10 times in their careers.

      But before you rush into a voluntary job change, take some time to develop a strategy to help make sure you land a better job than your current one. This brochure can help you assess whether it’s time to make a move, and will look at your options should you decide that it is time.

      This chapter also discusses ways to change jobs without being financially penalized. How do you continue to have insurance coverage during and after your move to a new employer? And, what should you do with whatever retirement money you have coming?

      Be Prepared

      Good luck is what happens when opportunity meets preparation. Whether you might be changing jobs in the next six months or the next six years, keeping your skills up-to-date works to your advantage. Even if you’re not planning on leaving your job, an opportunity may come up that you’d want to pursue-such as a chance for promotion or a job across town that sounds like it was made for you. And keeping on top of your profession keeps you sharp for whatever you’re doing today.

      Perhaps there’s a computer program you could learn. Maybe a business writing course or public speaking seminar could enhance your communication skills. Would a second language or management training make you more valuable in your field?

      Also, pay attention to what’s happening in your company and industry. The economy, the community, employment trends and competition can affect your job and you. Ideally, you want to be able to identify and recognize career opportunities as well as obstacles. Here are some questions to help assess how secure you and your employee are:

      •Where do I see myself, with my present employer, in one year?

      •Do other companies offer positions comparable to mine?

      •What qualifications are employers asking of recruits for positions similar to mine?

      •Does my boss, and his or her position, seem secure within the organization?

      •Have there been recent changes in the top management of my company?

      •Is my company involved in a merger or acquisition?

      •How is my company doing financially?

      •How is my company doing in comparison to the competition?

      •Have I received any oral or written warnings on the job?

      Sizing Up Your Job

      If you are uncomfortable or dissatisfied with your job, what’s the reason? You’ll want to answer that question before starting a search for new employment. Otherwise, you could end up in a situation with similar problems but without the familiarity of a long-standing position. To help clarify your satisfaction with your professional situation, ask yourself these questions:

      oAm I happy with my work?

      oAm I challenged by my work?

      oIs there opportunity for me to advance?

      oAm I satisfied with my benefits?

      oHow do I feel about my office location, hours of work and co-workers?

      oAm I paid fairly?

      oIs my job too stressful?

      Once you’ve answered these questions honestly and thoroughly, ask yourself whether you’re willing to try to make the current situation work. What can you do to contribute to the solution? If you’re unhappy or unchallenged, could you work with your supervisor to re-align some of your duties? Could a seminar or class at a community college give you new ways to think about the job?

      If you’re concerned about advancement, are there classes you could take within your company on management training or job diversification? Could you volunteer for extra projects to show you can handle the responsibility?

      If pay, benefits, or both are an issue, perhaps a frank but polite talk with your supervisor is in order.

      If stress is affecting your life both on and off the job, perhaps a stress-reduction class at your local hospital or a few private sessions with a qualified counselor could help you put the situation in perspective.

      If, after some soul-searching, you decide you need to make a break from your current situation, proceed with caution. In most cases, you’re better off quietly beginning the job search while still enjoying the pay and benefits of your existing job. The fact that you’ve decided to move on-and that you’re looking at your current situation as temporary-might make the workplace more bearable until you’re ready to leave.

      What Now?

      If you’ve decided that a job change is ahead, look at it as an opportunity. Here’s your chance to advance professionally and move closer to your career objective or to redirect your skills and experience. Ask yourself where you want to be in your profession in one year, five years and 10 years. Then, to make sure you’re on track, take a moment to write down your strong points as well as your employment preferences.

      •What are my strengths?

      •What do I enjoy doing?

      •How do I want to spend my day-in an office, on the road, outdoors?

      •What type of hours do I like to keep?

      •What type of work can I get the most satisfaction from while still earning sufficient income?

      •Am I willing to commute?

      •Do I like to work with people, computers, books, animals, plants?

      •Do I mind (or would I miss) business travel?

      •Is my resume up-to-date?

      If you’re not sure where your abilities and your interests lie, many books are available at your local library or bookstore on vocational testing. Check the library for a copy of the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Or, you may want to meet with a career counselor. Look in the yellow pages or ask your college alumni office or local community college for a recommendation.

      New Department? New Company?

      If you’re satisfied with your employer but not with your present job, are other opportunities within the company available to you? To find out, check with your human resources department where, in most large companies, job openings will be posted. Companies usually will hire and promote from within before advertising a position to the public. If you’d like to make an internal move, make sure you know your company’s policy for job changes. For example, find out the amount of time you may be required to work in one area before you can switch to another, ask about any educational or training prerequisites for advancing and determine СКАЧАТЬ