Quitting your job is always a scary thing to do, more so when you don’t have another opportunity lined up. Landing a new job first is ideal for a few reasons:
- A job is a source of financial stability, and you’ll have little to no break in your salary or benefits;
- You’ll have no unemployment gap; and
- You’ll maintain the linear career progression that recruiters find appealing.
While you may be hesitant to leave your job for any of the above reasons, sometimes it’s just the right decision for you. But before you quit, you should be very sure that it’s the right thing to do. Once you tender your resignation, there’s no taking it back.
Before taking the plunge and resigning from your workplace, here are three things you ought to consider.
1. What’s Your Motivator?
Do you dread the idea of getting up in the morning and going to work? If so, think about what you dislike about your job and determine the reasons behind your dissatisfaction. Sit down and make a list. Try to find specific problems – it’s best to clarify your key motivators for leaving.
You need to pinpoint why you’re frustrated then you can determine your next step. Do you feel stifled at work? Are you dealing with difficult people at work? Have you found yourself on the wrong career path, and this is causing you stress and anxiety? If the stress of staying at your job is worse than the fear of leaving, it’s time to call it quits. Assess the toll of your current job on your happiness and well-being. Sometimes jumping ship is the best way you can salvage your peace of mind.
For instance, if your work environment is so toxic that it’s taking a toll on your health and mental well-being, then leaving is the right choice. A toxic workplace is more than a job you “hate.” Everyone has bad days and challenging weeks even. But a toxic workplace breeds negativity, low morale, unrest, and constant stress leading to burnout and disruptions in your life. If this is the situation you find yourself in, it’s time to go.
However, if what you’re dealing with gears more towards irritation rather than frustration, maybe you can tolerate the job as you look for another.
2. Can You Work It Out?
So, you’ve made a list of things you dislike about your job. But are there things you like about your job? Don’t say “nothing.” Sometimes the bad can overshadow the good. Maybe you enjoy the work but have a problem with the working conditions. It helps to be as specific as possible; this is the key to solving your problems. If you can’t list any positive things about your job, your situation might be as hopeless as it seems. But odds are you’ll find something you like about it. Comparing the two lists can be eye-opening.
Now, another question you must ask yourself: Can you resolve any of the issues? Let’s say you enjoy work but are having problems with your manager or boss. Look at the issue objectively and try to see their side. Maybe there are some changes you can make to improve the relationship. You can also sit down and discuss the situation with them. Remember, sometimes you have to take the initiative. You can’t always rely on others to solve a problem.
Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed with the amount of work on your plate. This could be a testament to the amount of faith your boss has in you. However, if you have too much to do, you must talk to your boss. Or maybe you just need a break. Sometimes it’s not the work itself but the lack of a proper work-life balance. In this case, a vacation could work wonders. Can you get a flexible schedule, a leave of absence, or a severance? If you’re considering leaving, ask for what you need anyway.
Perhaps you’re looking for more? If you’re not fulfilled at work, you could express interest in other projects at work or take the time to hone some of your skills. Find out what education or training benefits your company offers and take advantage of them.
Unless you’re at the end of your rope, don’t quit just yet. You may be able to sort out your situation.
3. What’s Next? – Do You Have a Plan?
If you’re really at the end of the rope and leaving is the best option, you must have a plan in place. First, do you have an emergency fund to cover six to twelve months of expenses? Remember to include all your expenses in this calculation. Quitting means you forego employer-provided health insurance. Can you cater to these costs out-of-pocket? Also, you may need to cut some expenses.
Remember, if you quit your job without good cause, you will not be able to collect unemployment. What qualifies as good cause? In general, good cause is an unsolvable problem such as unsafe work conditions, physical health problems, or discrimination. It makes sense to leave a workplace that doesn’t have career advancement opportunities, but such a reason won’t get you unemployment benefits.
Second, do you have a realistic plan for obtaining your next job? First things first: are your plans realistic? How long are you likely to be out of a job? Do you have the necessary skillset and experience? You have to position yourself for the next career while at your current one. Get the training and education you need. Or maybe you want to start a small business. Do you have the capital? Do you have a strategic business and marketing plan? These are just some of the things you have to consider.
Finally, do you have the support of family and friends? Your decision to quit will affect others in your life. When making a plan, make sure to involve them in your choices. Having a support system will definitely keep you on track as you move on to the next stage of your career and life.
Key Takeaway
The worst decision you can make is to quit your job on a whim. Before pulling the trigger, ask yourself whether you’re just having a series of bad days. If the situation is bearable or solvable, it’s best to stay until you have a fleshed-out plan. If not, leave. No job is worth your health and well-being. But whatever the case, you need to be comfortable with what it means not to have a job and be adequately prepared.
About nexus IT group
Google best IT staffing agencies near me and you’ll see nexus near the top of the page one. Our IT recruitng agency recruits top talent in large cities all across the US. If you have an immediate IT opening, or are a tech job seeker looking to advance your IT career, you’ve come to the right IT staffing firm, contact nexus IT group. We have access to highly skilled, tech talent most recruiters can’t easily get in front of, so let our IT recruiting team show you why so many companies trust our staffing agency with their most important IT hires.
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