How to Know if it's Time To Leave Your Job

John Krautzel
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According to a 2017 survey by the Conference Board, 49.6 percent of Americans are dissatisfied with their jobs. If you fall into that group, you might wonder if you'd be better off finding a new position elsewhere. Unfortunately, quitting your job might not be the answer and could lead to a new crop of problems. Ask yourself these four questions before taking deciding to put in your resignation letter.

1. Do You Have a Good Reason?

Before planning your exit strategy, figure out exactly why you're dissatisfied. Have you stopped growing in your position? Do you have issues with your coworkers or management? Is your salary too low? Try to put your precise reasons for wanting to leave your job into words, and then consider if a new job would fix those issues. For example, if your salary is well under the industry average, it is likely that you can find a better paying position. On the other hand, people issues are common in all companies. Quitting your job is a drastic step, so don't do anything rash until you've taken a look at the job market and weighed your chances for finding a better position in a reasonable amount of time.

2. How Are Your Finances?

Be sure you have enough savings to handle your unemployed period prior to quitting your job. If your savings are inadequate, consider looking for a new position without leaving your current one. Sometimes, it is easier to find a job while working in the industry. Staying employed while job hunting also helps you avoid employment gaps on your resume.

3. Have You Considered Your Benefits?

Discreetly check your benefit status before deciding to quit. Although some companies pay for accrued vacation or personal time when you leave, others don't. Consider taking advantage of your paid time off before turning in your resignation letter. Paid time off also offers you a chance to look for a new job while still bringing home a paycheck. Be sure to take a look at your health insurance and retirement plans too and think about how quitting your job will affect them.

4. Do You Have Other Options?

Never quit a secure position without thinking about other options for solving your work-related problems. If your salary is low, ask for a raise or check on promotion opportunities. If you are unhappy with your coworkers or immediate supervisor, see if there is an open position in a different department. Perhaps, all you really need to do is sit down with your supervisor and discuss your discontent. In general, companies want their workers to be happy and fulfilled, so give management at your company a chance to help improve your situation before taking steps toward quitting your job.

Avoid rashly leaving your position without first trying to solve your work problems and ensuring that you have some funds set aside to cover your living expenses during your anticipated unemployed period. Remember that every job has its downside. On the other hand, if you are feeling truly underchallenged or underpaid, quitting your job and finding a more fulfilling position is your most sensible option.


Photo courtesy of Fancy District Online at Flickr.com

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  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson

    @Dawn G thanks for your comment. Oh so true. Every company I have worked at has at least one of these "helpers". They stir up hate and discontent in the workplace and then sit back and watch the fireworks. But, sooner or later, it's going to backfire on them and they are going to find themselves in the unemployment line.

  • Dawn G.
    Dawn G.

    Very true!!! Sometimes the people who are supposed to be the “helpers” cause more problems behind the scenes and blame you out of their insecurities to keep a “good thing”, when they are causing bigger problems to the bigger picture!!!

  • Ronda W.
    Ronda W.

    Most programs I've been working in r very toxics.Ran by people that do not have the children first.It's all about getting the funds too fill their needs.I've been hired,but end up leaving them.They r so toxic that I have,had concerns and it becomes a problem when I express my concerns.They want u
    'OUT' immediately.Then label u as a problem.The government'feds''local'need to monitor these problems.Funds need to be deceased.The schools districts that contract with these agencies r just as guilty as the government for not monitoring these programs,especially in poverty area's.

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