Are you contemplating whether or not the New Year is the right time to make a change in your career path? Assessing when to stay or pivot in your career requires thoughtful consideration of various factors to ensure that your career aligns with your goals and aspirations. As you weigh the possibility of making a job change, here are a few points to keep in mind.
Does your current role align with your career goals?
The first step in determining whether to stay in your current IT role is to assess whether your job aligns with your personal and professional goals. Reflect on whether your current responsibilities and projects are helping you progress toward your desired long-term career goals. Sometimes job responsibilities change, and a role that may have been a good fit at the start may no longer be the right role to help you progress in your career. If you find that your current job no longer resonates with your goals and values, it might be a sign that it is time to make a change.
What are your current opportunities for growth?
If you’ve been in your current IT job for a while, it may be time to take the next step in advancing your career. Consider the opportunities you have for growth in your current position. Is there a clear path for advancement or professional development opportunities? Instead of leaving your current role, it may simply be time to pursue more opportunities within the role you have or seek out additional professional development options. If your company doesn’t offer clear options for advancement but you want to stay, discuss your goals with your manager. Additionally, you could explore external training or certifications your employer might be willing to fund.
Are you in a healthy work environment?
A healthy work culture is crucial to both professional and personal satisfaction. If you find that your current work environment is toxic, stagnant, or does not align with your values, it may be an indication that it is time to pivot toward a more positive workplace. Finding a more supportive and respectful work culture will help foster growth and overall well-being, making it a key factor in long-term career success.
What are your opportunities for a new job
Understanding the current job market is a crucial aspect of determining whether to stay or leave your current role. Assess current openings in your area of expertise to understand what opportunities are available. If you have professional connections at other companies, reach out to see if they’re aware of any openings that might suit your skills. Additionally, attending industry events can help you discover potential job opportunities that align with your career goals.
You may also want to consider new employment types such as a contract or contract-to-hire role. These roles allow you to work temporary contracts with employers, and a contract-to-hire position may have the opportunity for direct employment at the end of your contract. At Patriot Talent Solutions, our IT recruitment team can help you determine if these types of positions would be a good fit for you.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision on whether to stay in your current role or pivot in a new direction. If you would like to explore new opportunities or different types of employment, our IT recruitment team will be happy to connect with you. Explore our job board and contact us today.