At the bang of the last firework, most of us start the new year focused on (second-guessing) our future. We spend our well-earned Christmas break overthinking if we are doing the right things in life, are we in the right job, are we learning and earning enough to meet our goals? 

With economic uncertainty following us into 2023, some just want to feel grateful we have a secure job in the face of so many layoffs. 

So, should you stay put, or is it really time for a new job? 

If your mind is preparing to spiral out of control, you can rest your weary head. 

We’ve produced this guide to help you figure it out. 

7 Questions to ask yourself to work out if it’s time to switch jobs 

The new year hype and all its resolutions of a bigger and better 12 months can distort reality somewhat and have us chasing something we don’t need. So, before you jump on the job switching bandwagon, ask yourself these questions to gain some clarity. 

1. Do I still believe in the company and want to do all I can to help it thrive? 
2. Does my role enable me to do the things I’m good at and enjoy? 
3. Do I feel like my contribution is appreciated and my opinions heard? 
4. Do I feel like I’m being challenged to keep learning and growing? 
5. Do I feel like I’m always pushed to my limit, with little time or capacity to relax and restore? 
6. Do I feel like I’m being reasonably compensated for my efforts? 
7. Do I feel like everyone else’s careers are soaring while I’m stagnating? 

Unfortunately, we’re not scoring this one like a teen magazine love quiz. You’ll have to figure out what your answers mean for you. But reflecting on these questions can help you work out why you might be feeling like a new job is your only answer. They could also help you figure out that moving on isn’t your only option. 

When chasing purpose drives change 

Thirty-eight per cent of respondents in our 2022 Candidate Motivators Survey indicated a lack of purpose in their current job motivated them to change roles with a new employer. For many people, they feel more satisfied with their jobs when work feels meaningful and empowering. 

Just ponder – how much faster does time fly when you’re encouraged to dream big, share opinions, and challenge your thinking? And how much does time drag when your voice is ignored, your work lacks impact and your career lacks direction? 

If your previous answers indicate you’re lacking purpose and a sense of meaningful contribution, it might make sense to seek out new opportunities filling that need for purpose. After all, purpose has been found to reduce burnout, increase productivity, and improve engagement and wellbeing. And considering we spend on average 90,000 hours of our life at work, the impact purpose can have on your life holistically, is immense.

When switching jobs isn’t the answer 

The reality is you don’t always need to switch jobs in your pursuit of more. The desired ‘greener pastures’ don’t always end up meeting the need for changing jobs in the first place. If you pause and think strategically about your purpose and goals, what it is you enjoy contributing to the world, what it is that brings you joy in your workplace and career, it is sometimes possible to find this without a drastic change in cubicles. 

Before you look outside your organisation, consider what changes you could make in your current role first. 

• Could you upskill, reskill, or advance your knowledge with training or project secondments? 
• Could you connect with an industry leader to be your mentor? 
• Could you connect with younger or less experienced staff and be their mentor? 
• Could you share your expertise and industry insights in blogs or podcasts? 
• Could you talk to your manager about your career desires and/or negotiate a better compensation package to meet you where you are in life? 

Take time to reflect   

Instead of jumping in headfirst because ‘tis the season, use the holidays to take stock of where you’re at and where you long to be. Research the market to stay on top of what’s happening, the risks and opportunities that could aid your decision-making. With a calmer, more balanced outlook, you’ll be better placed to know whether a new job is the right choice.