The holiday break is often a time for introspection. It is therefore natural, when the new year begins, to ask yourself questions about your past achievements and to imagine stimulating challenges for the year to come.
Among the topics that come up frequently during periods of questioning, professional development occupies an important place.
If you want to take assess your career this holiday season, we invite you to read this article in order to nourish your career considerations, and then make the best decision for you, based on your needs and priorities.
Assessment of your current situation
If you are thinking about changing jobs, asking yourself the right questions is essential to effectively guide your career. The first step is to assess your current situation.
Indeed, work occupies an important part of our lives and must be a source of satisfaction, both professional and personal.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Do I feel like I am making a real contribution to my organization?
- Am I generally motivated to go to work, or does the routine end up demotivating me?
- Are my potential and my skills fully exploited and valued in my current role?
- Do I feel that my compensation really reflects the value of my work and contributions?
- Do I have prospects for professional development within my organization?
- Does my work nourish me intellectually and allow me to thrive?
- Am I proud of the work I do and the results I produce every day?
- Do I feel a genuine sense of well-being and satisfaction in my current role?
- Am I recognized and respected by my colleagues and superiors for my efforts and achievements?
- Does the work environment in which I work correspond to my values and career aspirations?
If you have answered several of these questions in the negative, it is very possible that the desire for change will be felt. But before you make a decision, ask yourself whether your current situation can be improved as a result of conversations with your manager, or changes in the organization of your work, for example.
If this is not the case, then a change of position or company is really necessary.
But beware of taking any new opportunities. Make sure that the change is part of a larger and stable project, as repeated job changes can affect your future employability.
Stability vs. Change: Finding the Right Balance
It is common to wonder if the “grass is greener elsewhere”. If you're feeling uncomfortable in your current job, it's tempting to think that another position could offer immediate solutions. However, it is important not to give in to the temptation to leave too quickly.
Instability in your career, with frequent job changes, can damage your profile in the eyes of recruiters. On the other hand, a stability of 20 or 30 years in the same position can be perceived as not very dynamic if no evolution is present.
The challenge therefore lies in balance: it is legitimate to look for a new position if the opportunities for advancement at your current job are limited, but it is also essential to be discerning.
So before jumping on a new opportunity, make sure that it meets your needs in terms of working conditions and quality of life.
Also, make sure that the irritants you have in your current job are not present in the opportunity you're considering, so you don't have to look for a new job just a few months after accepting this new opportunity.
To find out if the change you're considering will contribute to your happiness, assess what's important to your job satisfaction.
The main elements that contribute to job satisfaction:
A good relationship with your immediate supervisor and colleagues
A harmonious relationship with your work team is a critical factor in your job satisfaction. If you are in an environment where the relationship with your boss or colleagues is tense or even toxic, it can seriously affect your motivation and performance.
In this case, it becomes necessary to look for a new opportunity, even if your length of service is still relatively short. Mental health and quality of life at work must come first.
Fair remuneration
Salary is a key factor in any job change decision. It is important to know the market and to know where your remuneration compares to the average in your sector. Several online resources, such as the Job Bank, will help you compare salaries.
To be satisfied in your job, it is important that in your opinion, your remuneration is fair, based on the market and the internal equity in your company.
If you are thinking of changing jobs for a higher salary, check out our article on the subject.
A feeling of efficiency and autonomy
To be satisfied in your job, you need to feel that your skills are recognized, that your work has a positive impact and that it allows you to excel.
So, if you are looking for advancement, ask yourself if you have the skills to take on this new challenge. Pride in hard work and tangible results is a powerful motivator.
In addition, autonomy plays a key role in your well-being at work. According to the self-determination theory, three essential psychological needs must be met to be happy and motivated: autonomy, competence and social belonging.
Look for a position that will give you the space you need to exercise your talents, make decisions, and grow professionally.
The importance of long-term thinking
It is advisable to reassess your career path every 5 to 8 years. This will allow you to check if your evolution is going in the right direction and if you are still in line with your values and goals. A change of job or employer can be a great opportunity to nurture your career and broaden your horizons.
In conclusion, a career is made up of choices, transitions and challenges. The career path is unique for everyone and it is important to make informed choices. The grass is not always greener next door, but if you are willing to invest time and energy in thinking about your priorities, you can find a fulfilling job.
If these career considerations lead you to consider a fresh start, do not hesitate to Send us your CV in the new year.
