Dont Quit Your Job Just Yet
Over the last three years, the United States’ workplaces have seen a dramatic change in dynamics. A hiring culture that was once equal parts aggression and ambition has changed into something almost nothing like its former self, with recruiters working to strict and frugal guidelines and applicants all but completely dedicating themselves to the demands of potential employers.
It’s the mirror image of last decade’s recruiting boom, and it’s having a distinctly negative effect on the country’s work environments. Despite having relative job security, many employees are feeling unsatisfied and unhappy in their jobs. Morale levels remain low across the nation, with change at the forefront of many employees’ minds and job security seemingly losing importance quickly.
But before you step out of your job, it’s important to consider the consequences. While employers are hiring at greater levels than they have over the past two years, there are still some major pitfalls that are likely to affect jobseekers today. Consider these four realities of on-the-job dissatisfaction before you make any drastic changes, and weigh up your situation in terms of long-term value.
It may be up to twelve months before you secure another job.
Financial author Susan Hirshman suggests job leavers map out an entire year’s worth of expenses before leaving their positions. The figure has increased from six months over the past three years, with positions growing ever more limited and opportunities taking significantly longer to find than in previous years. Before you quit your job, make sure you’re prepared for a lengthy job search.
Unemployment benefits are limited for those that quit their jobs.
Unemployment benefits vary on a state-by-state basic, although most offer only modest assistance for employees that leave their positions. Payments can be frugal and temporary, offering little in the way of support for those that once survived on an executive salary. Check the details of your state’s unemployment support benefit, and be prepared to take a serious hit in income if you leave work.
Despite economic recovery, opportunities are still limited.
Thinking of walking from one job to another? Unless you have a solid offer already, you could find yourself unable to find another position at the same salary and command level. While the economy is moving forward and high-level job opportunities are becoming more common, competition is no laughing matter and employers are often inundated with applications, resumes, and cover letters.
Hiring practices are changing rapidly. Are you really prepared?
It’s especially important for employees leaving salaried positions to consider how the hiring world may have changed during their period of employment. The recent economic crisis forced thousands of long-term employees to adapt to a digital hiring market, pushing many technologically unsavvy candidates out of positions that they were otherwise completely qualified for.
The US Government’s USAJobs Info Center can be helpful for employees in the public sector, and contains information on the way major public organizations are hiring in the 21st century.
