While your length of service by no means guarantees your job security, accepting a new position with a different firm can make you more vulnerable to a layoff. But you may be eager to try something new or feel that your skills make you marketable despite the economy. How do you determine the best course of action? The following guidelines can help.
You might want to stay at your job if:
You need more experience. If you're an entry-level professional, and your position seems secure, it's probably better to stay with your current firm so you can continue to build your skills and experience. In an uncertain economy, companies are especially particular about hiring professionals with the exact qualifications required. Once the economic climate improves, you'll be more marketable -- and more likely to find opportunities -- with additional skills.
You want a bigger challenge. If you feel underutilized at your current firm, your first inclination may be to jump ship. But a volatile economy can actually provide the opportunity for you to take on more responsibility. As your company attempts to do more with less, volunteer to take on new projects or help with existing ones. By doing so, you can add value to your organization, expand your skill set and position yourself for advancement.
Your 'complaints' are minor. Perhaps you've had small quibbles with a coworker, or your boss isn't the best communicator. As long as these types of concerns aren't preventing you from effectively doing your job -- or making your life at the company unbearable -- they probably aren't serious enough to justify moving on in a challenging employment environment.
You might want to start a job search if:
You're miserable. It's normal to experience ups and downs in enthusiasm for your job. But if you consistently dread going to the office and can't wait to leave at the end of the day, both your health and the quality of your work can suffer. If you're miserable in your job, you're not helping your company or your own career, so you might consider finding a new position.
Your industry or company is in a slump. Some areas of business suffer more than others during a downturn. If your industry or company is sinking, you may want to make a move to a more stable sector or organization. Before doing so, however, make sure the downturn is not temporary. If long-term prospects are still bright, riding out the storm can position you as a leader once the climate improves.
If you decide it's time to pursue a new opportunity, there are some actions you can take to jump-start your job search. First and foremost is getting in touch with those in your professional network. Having a base of contacts that can clue you in to job leads and provide referrals for prospective employers is invaluable when more people are searching for fewer positions. Use social and professional networking sites such as LinkedIn to connect with those who might be able to assist you.
It's also essential to evaluate your skills and experience against market demand, which you can do by looking at job postings in your field. What qualifications do employers seek for the roles you are targeting? If you don't have all the necessary skills for the positions you hope to land, can you develop them? You may want to sign up for classes or seminars to get the training you need.
Also consider registering with a staffing firm to broaden your search. Representatives from the service will look for full-time or temporary positions for you, effectively doubling your job search efforts. These professionals have access to positions that are not advertised due to their deep networks within the local business community. In addition, you can often access free training opportunities and receive resume and interviewing advice when working with a staffing firm. ( msn.com )
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