8 Signs Its Time to Look For a New Job

Today’s job market is very different from how it was in the past.

It used to be more commonplace to give years and years of loyalty to a company. Today, it’s better to move around every so often in order to broaden your experience by working with new products, teams, and organizations. In the startup world, things can also change very quickly so it’s important to stay on your toes.

Naturally, there are telltale signs you may experience when deciding when to look for a new job. We’ve noted 8 of them that you should be on the lookout for if you’ve been in your role for a while and are considering leaving.

When to look for a new job: 8 telling signs

You’re no longer happy and work is the reason.

Work-life balance is a reality for some, an elusive goal for others. If you can’t achieve it, or if your work specifically is causing your wellbeing to suffer, it may be time to consider other opportunities. There’s a big difference between having the occasional bad day and being genuinely unhappy with your workplace, structure, team, management, or your role.

In fact, Gallup reports that employees who were struggling or suffering in their lives were about twice as likely to change jobs than those who were thriving.

The company isn’t giving you promotions or opportunities to advance.

Most people enter a role with the intention of moving up in the ranks or within their organization. That trajectory can change, however, whether it’s your own doing or the result of changing priorities within your organization. If those opportunities are no longer available to you – especially when you’ve asked for them or have performed in a manner that would make you eligible for one — it may be time to look for a new job.

Either your values or the organization’s values change (and they no longer align).

Every company starts with a specific set of values. Those values may change over time, and they may not align with yours any longer. It’s important, as an employee, to know what values you align with and don’t with the organization you work for.

In fact, LinkedIn’s Workplace Culture report states that 86% of Millennials would consider taking a pay cut to work at a company whose mission and values align with their own.

You’re not challenged by your role anymore.

The right role for you should strike a balance between tasks you’re comfortable and familiar with and enough challenge to keep you intrigued. When your job becomes so monotonous that every day feels the same or the same challenges aren’t keeping you on your toes any longer, that could be a sign you’re ready for a shake up.

Furloughs or mass layoffs seem imminent.

Particularly during times of uncertainty — like the COVID pandemic or probable recessions — furloughs and layoffs are an unfortunate reality. In some cases, a company isn’t doing too well and cutting staff is the one of few ways to save cash.

A layoff may be a great reason to jump ship. It’s important to understand your employee contract and what you’re entitled to (and not) in the event of a layoff versus quitting on your own accord. Every company and contract is different, however, so be sure to consult someone you trust about what the right options are.

The company doesn’t offer the benefits you need.

The Great Resignation has shown employees to not accept less than they deserve (and desire). Plus, benefits packages can change on a dime depending on what the company wants. If a company doesn’t or no longer offers the benefits you’re looking for — remote work being a huge one people reference — you may want to look for an organization that meets your benefit needs, be them medical, personal, or professional.

You’re excited about the idea of a new job or career path.

Getting excited about the idea of a new role or a different career path is understandable. We’re flooded with information about different opportunities and how lucrative or interesting they can be. If you find yourself wondering what another career path might look like, do your research and build any necessary skills before you quit your job.

On the other hand — you can become a full-time App Academy student and dive headfirst into a career in software engineering. We’ve helped over 5,000 students graduate with the skills necessary to land them a job in tech.

Set yourself up for success when looking for a new job

No matter what the reason is for wanting to find a new job, it’s important to understand the motivations behind wanting to change so you won’t find yourself in the same situation in another role or company.

If you’re considering new opportunities, check out why software engineering is predicted to be the fastest-growing industry in the world.