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The other day, I was updating old blog posts when I came upon a series of articles I wrote back in 2018. The series was about how to rekindle the joy in your work when your job no longer brings fulfillment.
As I read the third article in the series, I realized the topic is even more pertinent now than it was four years ago. That’s because the pandemic has resulted in what they often call “The Great Resignation”. People are quitting their jobs in record numbers.
If you’re thinking about a job change, I hope you’ll consider these important points before taking the plunge.
Today’s article comes with a bit of a twist. What if you realize that your current job isn’t right for you anymore? What if you decide it’s time to move on and find joy in something new?
Leaving your job isn’t always a bad thing. Consider this quote from Steve Jobs:
“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.”
That being said, be careful not to make a rash decision. There are several things to consider before you submit that letter of resignation.
Explore a different role within the company
A few days ago I was talking with a CNA at the nursing home where I volunteer. Earlier this year, she transferred from the nursing department to the laundry department.
Even though her new role means lower wages, she has no regrets. The new job is less physically demanding, and her current schedule works out much better for her family.
Finding a new position in the same company allows you to stay with the residents you’ve grown to love. Plus, you’ll maintain your seniority and the perks that come with it.
Talk about your concerns
If you haven’t already talked with your supervisor about why you want to leave your job, this is an important first step. Unfortunately, supervisors can’t possibly know everything that goes on in an organization, and they can’t read minds.
Don’t assume your supervisor knows what’s bothering you. If you approach your boss positively and professionally, perhaps together the two of you can come up with a solution and you’ll decide to stay.
Second, find someone who can help you look at the pros and cons of staying at your current job vs going somewhere new. This person needs to be objective and be able to help you look at all aspects of what a job change might mean.
If you don’t have a friend to fill this role, most healthcare facilities offer employee assistance programs. Here, you can discuss your situation in a confidential setting with a trained professional.
Be sure the other job is truly better
I remember several instances when employees at our nursing home became frustrated with some aspect of their job and decided to go elsewhere. A short time later, they returned, asking for their old job back. They discovered that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
Unfortunately, they now lost their seniority and had to start from scratch with all of their benefits. That’s why it’s important to research a potential new job thoroughly before you take the plunge.
Do your best until the end
When you know the end is in sight, it might tempt you to simply bide your time until you can leave. However, for the sake of your residents and co-workers, it’s important to continue to do your best work.
Even worse, you might decide to just walk out one day and not return. However, it’s crucial to follow the company’s protocol for resignations.
If they ask for a 2-week notice, then it’s usually in your best interest to follow the rule. This helps protect your reputation if you ever need a reference from your employer or if you decide to return to this organization in the future.
Finally, I encourage people to take advantage of an exit interview if offered by your company. This is an opportunity for you to give an honest appraisal of your experiences with the organization and perhaps make a positive difference for current and future employees.
What advice would you offer to someone who is considering leaving their job? I would love to see your thoughts in the comment section.
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