Even when you love your job and you’re happy with your current firm, we all have difficult days, even weeks. That doesn’t necessarily mean that it is time for a change of job. However, when those difficult days and weeks happen more regularly it could be time to take the plunge and start thinking about what else is out there to make you happier in your working life. So, how do you know when it is the right time to move jobs for you?
There’s so much talk about work / life balance and mental wellbeing but that isn’t just about managing your time and not spending hours and hours in the office or tied to your desk. It’s also worth considering whether the time you are at work makes you feel fulfilled and that you feel valued.
There are so many factors to consider when looking for a new employer. Salary and benefits being one of them, but also ensuring that the culture and values of the firm are a good fit for you. So, that you feel you are part of something that makes you enjoy your work.
Signs that it might be time for a career / job move
Here are some of the top signs that it is time for you to start considering making that change:
Spending Sunday dreading Monday
We’ve all been there from time-to-time. When we know we have a tough week ahead. However, if you are regularly feeling dread on a Sunday, then it’s time to start searching for something new.
Clockwatching
Are you spending your afternoon thinking “Gosh it’s not even 3pm yet”? You’re waiting for the clock to strike home time and dying to get away from your desk? If that’s the case, then it’s clear you aren’t enjoying your time and work. So, what are you waiting for? Start looking at what’s out there as it is definitely time to get out.
Feeling stuck
Are you feeling that your progression with your employer is limited or you’re being overlooked with no genuine explanation? Then it could be time to consider other firms where there are real prospects for progression. (Don’t forget to ask about this in interviews too.)
You’re feeling unfulfilled
When you have skills, experience and knowledge that aren’t being used to their full potential it can leave you feeling unsatisfied and frustrated. Not to mention the fact this can limit your career progression. You could be stuck in a role or firm where your full potential may never be reached and that means it is definitely time to consider other opportunities.
When the culture / values don’t fit with you personally
The culture and values of your employer are so important as it impacts the priorities of the firm and how they achieve their vision. If this isn’t a match, then what you perceive as important and a priority may not be matched with your employers and things could become difficult. It’s so important to work with a firm whose culture and values are in sync with your own, for you to feel happy in your working environment.
How to get the wheels in motion and start job searching
Taking these indicators into account it’s then all about timing and making sure that you don’t jump from the kettle into the fire. Here are my top tips for when and how to get the wheels in motion for that change that you need:
Ensure your CV is up to date
An up-to-date CV is imperative so have it ready. Don’t wait until you find that perfect opportunity as you don’t want to put yourself under pressure. Better still, if you are working with us we will help you with your CV and ensure it looks top notch before we put you forward anonymously to any of our clients.
Know what’s out there
If your skills, experience and knowledge are in demand then put yourself out there. There is no better time to look for a new employer than when the demand is high and supply is short.
In the legal market we are finding that there is remarkably high demand in specific disciplines. To find out more about the market in your area then get in touch.
Don’t wait for vacancies to pop up
Work with a reputable Recruitment Consultant who can approach firms before they advertise.
Any Recruitment Consultant worth their salt will really want to understand why you are looking for a change. An even better Recruitment Consultant will ensure that they consider the law firm clients they have that are a good fit for you. Be that with regards to progression, culture, working environment or values.
When I am working with candidates I always spend time ensuring I understand what they like/dislike, what they are looking for in their next employer and what working environment works best for them. Even if the law firms that will be a good fit don’t have any vacancies, I approach them on a no name basis to see if they have any upcoming opportunities they could consider my candidate for.
Don’t switch jobs too often
Sometimes people have an unsettled few years and that isn’t too concerning for prospective employers. But if you switch jobs every year or two consistently that can be a red flag.
After 2-3 years in a role, where you have made an impact or successfully achieved your targets then it could be time to make a change. If you’re unsure what to do, speak to your Recruitment Consultant, that’s what we are here for. We’ll take a look at your CV and provide our honest opinion.
Strike while the iron is hot
If you’re starting to feel that things aren’t right at your current firm but you are productive and delivering results, don’t wait for things to take a nose dive. Feeling unhappy in your job can have an impact on your results so don’t wait too long. You want to be interviewed when you are feeling confident and at the top of your game. So, what are you waiting for?
Ultimately, you will know when it is time for a change and if you need some support finding the right firm and role then we can help.
We will help you with your CV, approach firms you have approved on your behalf on a no-name basis, help you prepare for interviews and manage any offers of employment. It doesn’t stop there; we will also support you with handing in your notice (often the hardest part for some of my candidates) and navigating through your notice period until you start your new role and settle in.
My final piece of advice is that you are in charge of your own happiness and destiny. Do what feels right for you and what will make you happier in all areas of your life.
Blog by Nikki Phillips, Legal Recruitment Consultant for Cumbria, Cheshire, Greater Manchester and Lancashire.
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