Confessions of a Professional Job Hopper
Word on the street is "Job hopping" has become a trend that's been growing expeditiously but please, don't fret! I'm here to let you know that it's okay if that job or career isn't giving what it needs to give. Speaking from a professional job hopper, I can relate to every reason why and through it all , I’ve remained ambitious. You will find something ! Before you judge yourself or anyone else for leaving a job that doesn't feel right for them , think about where you see yourself in 5-10 years from now. Will the position you’re in support your long term goals? Or even your short term goals? Here are 5 reasons why it may be time to call it quits.
Company Culture/ Toxic Work Environment - I think we can all say that working in a toxic work environment has never benefited us. Always wondering why companies appear to be a revolving door makes us paranoid. Examples of a toxic work environment can include bullying , gossiping , no employee appreciation ,and distrust. Let’s not forget racism, color-ism ,favoritism, sexism , ageism etc. I can go on all day but let’s stick to the basics and keep it short and sweet. Toxic work environments can lead to negative outcomes for employees such as low productivity , increase in absences , negative reputation and of course high turn over rates.
Salary/ Compensation - Let's be real , it's okay to love what you do but it feels even better being compensated for your hard work too. One of the most common reasons that employees leave their jobs is due to salary. We work to pay bills and maintain our everyday lifestyles so of course, money talks. Before you decide this employer may not be right for you , try speaking with management or human resources to negotiate your salary or even look into open opportunities. It doesn't' hurt to ask........or does it? Now if that doesn't work , it may be time to call it quits.
Management - There's nothing worse than an employer with poor management. It's like the blind leading the blind chile. As an employee, you look to your superiors as examples of how a leader should be and perception is everything. Unfit management can change the workplace dynamic and can also lead to negative effects on the employee's morale and productivity.
Distance - Spending hours to travel to work can be draining and can also lead to burnouts. Research says that more than 1.5 million workers in America commute for 3 hours or more from work to home or vice versa. Crazy right ? I mean if you like it , I love it however long commutes like those can definitely disrupt your work-life balance, which is essential for all of us.
Passion/Professional Development - Now this is my favorite! Ladies, Gents, do you actually like what you do? Are you pursuing that degree or training? Does your employer offer "room to grow"? The opportunity to advance your career should be one of your biggest motivators to leave a job. It is very common for employees to change jobs or careers where they can develop and grow their skills for that "dream job" or position that they really want. If your current employer cannot serve your career path, believe me, your thoughts about it are valued and acting on them is necessary. Don't sell yourself short.