Things to Consider when Finding a New Job
We’ve all been there..
that stressful Monday morning in the office when it feels like the entire world is against you, and everything you’ve done so far feels like a complete waste of time. At least, that’s where I was a few years ago before I decided to find a new job.
It’s probably no surprise that the majority of working professionals experience some level of dissatisfaction with their roles. Interestingly, though, there’s strong evidence to suggest that it’s not necessarily the company they work for but rather the role they are in or the people they work with. Regardless, it’s completely natural to desire a change of pace in our professional lives. In fact, studies suggest that most people should stay in a given role for about three years before looking to advance vertically or pivot laterally.
This is exactly where I found myself several years ago. After nearly a decade in corporate tech, I had built a solid financial foundation but felt deeply unfulfilled personally. If this sounds familiar, stick around, and I’ll share some key factors to consider when it comes to finding a new job.
Career Advancement Opportunities
A recurring theme among individuals unhappy with their current positions is the lack of career advancement opportunities. My general rule of thumb is this: if you’ve been in the same position for about three years, you should already be working toward the next level.
What advancement looks like can vary greatly. For some, it might mean a promotion to a higher position; for others, it could mean taking on new responsibilities, gaining skills, or earning a pay raise. The first step in considering a new job is identifying your career trajectory. If you’re staying within your industry, you likely know the natural next step. If you’re switching industries, embrace the excitement of the unknown.
Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance means different things to different people. For individuals with families, it might mean maximizing time with loved ones. For a young entrepreneur, it could mean balancing time with like-minded peers outside of paid work.
When I worked at Amazon, much of my free time was spent networking with other tech workers to learn about their projects. I wasn’t necessarily focused on work I was paid to do, and that balance was sufficient for me. Take stock of your own work-life threshold. If you’re unhappy with it in your current role, consider seeking opportunities that align better with your personal needs.
Alignment with Personal Goals
This topic took me longer than most to grasp. As we age, we tend to measure what truly matters on a personal level — values around well-being, the people we surround ourselves with, or even the ethical implications of our work. If your work feels misaligned with what you believe to be true or honest about yourself and the world, it might be time for a change. Consider the classic story of an accountant who spent years denying insurance claims, only to quit, explore Antarctica, and become a field scientist studying penguin migration. People change, and so do their values.
Company Culture
If you’ve worked in an entry-level role at a Fortune 500 or tech company, you’ve probably witnessed mediocre attempts at fostering company culture: pizza parties, root beer floats, or after-hours mini-golf (where you still pay for your own drinks). It’s great that companies attempt to foster culture, but for some, it’s not enough. If you value meaningful culture in the workplace, imagine your ideal environment and seek it out in the marketplace. Better yet, if you’re entrepreneurial, create it yourself!
Compensation Packages
When exploring new jobs, don’t just focus on the paycheck. Look closely at the entire compensation package: retirement matching, medical insurance, or employee discounts. For example, during college, I worked at a fitness center. While the pay was low, I enjoyed free gym access and smoothies, which added significant value. Evaluate your current compensation and compare it to potential opportunities. Don’t hesitate to ask hiring managers about benefits — it’s a crucial part of the decision-making process.
Commute Time
Commute time can significantly impact job satisfaction. Early in my career, I commuted an hour each way through traffic. It was exhausting, and I avoid traffic whenever possible now. During COVID-19, work-from-home culture provided relief, but many companies have since implemented hybrid or return-to-office policies. If commute time is a factor for you, make sure to account for how it will change with a new role.
Relationships with Colleagues
The people you work with significantly affect your overall well-being. As the saying goes, “Show me your friends, and I’ll show you who you are.” Workplace relationships matter. If you’ve been in the same job for years and dislike your coworkers, it might be time to move on. Surrounding yourself with supportive, inspiring colleagues can make all the difference. We live in a world filled with opportunities, especially for skilled professionals. Employers are aware that today’s workers often seek growth every few years. By moving vertically or laterally, you can ensure healthy salary growth and personal development.
Don’t let yourself become a disgruntled employee stuck in the same role for decades. Take time to weigh the pros and cons of where you are versus where you want to be. Then, make the best decision for your future self — whether it’s five, ten, or fifty years down the line.
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Aleksey Weyman
Aleksey Weyman is a writer and founder of Millennial Moderator. He has over a decade of experience in published writing, technology and digital marketing for business brands.
