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How to Decide to Stay at or Leave a Job

Help on Making a Decision about Your Workplace and Future

Jan 25, 2009 Paym Bergson

Following are a list of questions to answer as honestly as possible - designed to help you make the right choice for you at the present time regarding your employment.

Just because there's an economic downturn does not mean you are supposed to stay at your present job no matter what. So get out your paper and pen, think about your answers, and quickly jot down your ideas and feelings for future reference.

Working Environment

Is the atmosphere pleasant where you now work, despite the economic pressures? Do you, for the most part, enjoy working with your colleagues? What about your boss?

Do you dread going into your place of employment each day? Do you watch the clock for every break or find that quitting time doesn't come soon enough?

Obviously, if you hate where you work, it probably shows – creating a cycle of others not wanting to work with you either. It also takes a huge toll on you physically, emotionally as well as mentally. Your best bet is to start looking for work NOW – and think happy thoughts that you will be out soon. Remember, you need to be upbeat to get another job. No one wants to hire a Sad-Sack.

Salary

While you may not be that pleased with your salary, is it in keeping with your job responsibilities and the economic times? This does NOT mean you should be grateful you have a job; but if the company is in danger of collapsing, is EVERYONE doing his part, or is the onus on the lowly worker on the bottom rungs? If the CEOs and/or managers are not taking wage cuts, neither should you. Start looking for work, or retraining for other work. Consider night courses for upgrading.

Opportunity

Is your job stagnant or is there room for growth? Are there other opportunities within the company – do you even know if there are? Start looking around you – or ask Human Resources if there are opportunities for growth, expansion, or even if there is a budget for training. Many companies are still offering to pay for training – and that's a great way to get out of a rut.

Bottom Line

If overall, you like the company, then first check out other possibilities within – even if it might be a lateral move. Sometimes a change is as good as a rest. No matter what you decide, do not quit your job without another prospect lined up – right now, you will look more desirable and more employable if you already have a job. Even if you are ready to go out on your own in consulting or contracting – wait until you have a firm plan and finances in place.

The copyright of the article How to Decide to Stay at or Leave a Job in Career Advice is owned by Paym Bergson. Permission to republish How to Decide to Stay at or Leave a Job in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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