TBD 40: Let me show you the door.
How do you decide it's time to leave your job?
Someone asked me how long it took for me to decide to leave my job at Facebook. I always answer....seven years. I'm joking, but while I was there (for seven years), the idea of changing roles crossed my mind frequently.
So when DO you pull the ripcord?
How do you decide it's time to leave your job?
After all, it can be extremely tempting to look for another role especially seeing friends or peers making the jump during the Great Resignation.
Without the right steps in place you could be moving out of a bad situation into…another bad situation.
Work where you respect people (and are respected in return). Choose a position to learn and grow. Early in your career, changing jobs frequently is common.
After all, you're gaining experience and becoming competent in your field. There are lots of opportunities to build your skills and gain a better understanding of the business that you're in. When you don't see a growth path forward, moving to a new company with different opportunities or in a different vertical makes sense. Just remember:
Recruiters can help, but make sure you spend some time with your hiring manager.
Early in your career, a manager has a big impact on your professional path, your learning and most importantly the habits you develop as a professional. Find a good one.
You're starting your professional network. Align yourself with people you respect and enjoy working with and your paths will cross again (and again).
Changing roles as you become more senior requires more consideration.
For senior leaders it can take longer to find the right role and longer to onboard. So, you probably want to choose that next role wisely. It takes more time to engaged in a role with broad responsibility.
Your impact is dependent on the relationships you build and political capital you are able to gain.
Plan to invest more time before making a move because there’s more at stake.
As a senior candidate, you need to be crystal clear on your strengths, your achievements, and the challenges and opportunities are looking for in your next chapter. Ask for conversations with potential new peers to get multiple perspectives on the company and folks working there.
In my experience, I’m pleasantly surprised to cross paths with folks in my larger network again and again. It makes sense when those circles are filled with good people I've enjoyed spending time with. Good people know good people so you have a larger circle of talent beyond your direct contacts.
Working with a coach (hi! hello!) can be helpful in talking through all this and staying accountable to a plan through researching, interviewing and negotiation.
Making a long term plan:
Are you ready to go? ("I don't know yet" is a fine answer.)
What growth opportunity do I want? Be specific.
What’s the next meaningful step up for me? Stretch yourself!
What are my non-negotiables in my next role? Salary, benefits, flexibility, remote...
What do I want to accomplish in my next professional chapter?
Who have I enjoyed working with? Or what types of people/culture work for me?
No one clicks these. Do you read this far down? yes
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