5 Things to Know Before Changing Careers
It used to be that workers stayed with one company over the course of their entire career. Now, the typical worker may switch jobs, companies, or even change careers a handful of times by the age of 40.
Knowing when and if to make the move financially is crucial to know if the new prospect is right for you. Here are 5 things the professionals at Broussard Poché, LLP want you to know before changing careers.
- Company Reputation
Your name will be attached to the organization. Their reputation could have long-term implications for your career. Research the business to find out what kind of reputation it has and what its actions show about its values and the work environment. It’s also a good idea to do a little digging on the company’s financial outlook. The last thing you would want is to attach yourself to a company that’s going under. You want to join a financially strong company where you can feel comfortable and grow professionally. - Compensation and Benefits
You should be moving up. Make sure the salary being offered is comparable to what other companies would offer. Compare the benefits package to your current job, be sure you’re not losing out. - Seriously Look at the Benefits
Many people just skim over the benefits, but switching jobs to a company that offers fewer benefits will cost you money. Will you be paying more for health insurance? That could impact your paycheck by hundreds of dollars. Also, what about your commute. Will you benefit from a shorter commute than your current situation? Time off? Sick leave policy? All of these are important factors that could cost money and ultimately impact your financial situation. - Moving Up or Just Moving On
Will this move be good for your career goals? The answer looks a little different for everyone. If your goal is to be the CEO of your own company, make sure to take a position that will help you grow enough to eventually go out on your own. Or maybe your goal is to spend less time behind a desk? Will this new job meet that goal? Make sure you are achieving and not just leaving. - Will You like it?
If you are miserable every day, money, benefits, and goals won’t seem to matter much. If possible, reach out to people who work at the organization or see if friends or business contacts know anyone there you can speak to about the culture and other factors important to you. Try to find out if they offer things that are important to you, like working remotely or flexible hours. Things like that can make a huge difference in overall satisfaction.
Once you’ve looked at the good and bad, then outline how the company meshes with your goals, the obvious answer will present itself.