People are changing jobs at a historic pace and for good reason – it’s a candidate-driven labor market! What does this mean? With unemployment so low, businesses are having a difficult time filling open positions. This puts more power in your hands to find a new position and negotiate your compensation.
For those of you that are currently with a company and are either thinking about leaving or haven’t even really thought about changing jobs at all, these are 5 reasons to seriously think about changing jobs today.
1. Higher Compensation
The world is your playground, and you deserve a raise; so, go out and get it! According to Brian Kropp, vice president at research firm Garner, a worker who leaves their current position for a new one will receive about a 15 percent increase. “You’re never going to get that 15 percent [increase] by staying at your current job.”
The low unemployment rate is to the job seeker’s advantage. Employers are doing everything they can to attract candidates. Let them know up front what it would take to pull you away from your current job. Remember, the market is on your side, go high.
2. Better Benefits
Do you ever wish you had a better benefits package? Perhaps one with unlimited vacation, better healthcare choices and a robust retirement package? Employers know it’s difficult to hire employees, so they’re building more incentives through their benefits package to attract new candidates. Do your research to find a company that adheres to what you find most important.
As unemployment continues its strong standing, the competition is rife for companies trying to attract people just like you. According to Glassdoor in 2016, 57 percent of people surveyed reported benefits and perks being among their top considerations before accepting a job. Shop around and get what you desire.
3. Enhanced Culture
Company culture hits on a lot of values for employees to feel empowered and motivated within their office environment. Michelle Prince, Senior Vice President, Talent Management, North America for Randstad says, “A good culture addresses and enhances employees’ workplace experiences in a way that creates a motivated workforce that is well-positioned to achieve both corporate strategic goals and personal career goals.”
Are you jealous of your friend that works from home every day? Flexible schedules are a new trend of company cultures that has everyone wanting a piece of it. It’s the main component of keeping employees happy. If the work is getting done, what’s the harm in coming in a little late, working from home or leaving your job a little early? If your current employer’s benefits aren’t offering you what you’d like, it may be time to address that with your employer, or to move on.
4. Limited Mobility
Lots of people are faced with the dire prospect of never getting the opportunity for promotion only because there’s no room for upward mobility. This can lead to a stagnant workload with limited opportunities to challenge yourself. If you have the skills and what it takes for a promotion, seek other opportunities from other employers.
Titles aren’t everything, but they carry a lot of weight on your resume. Changing jobs to accomplish a promotion is becoming more common. Use the candidate-driven market to your advantage and get your promotion from a company that could utilize your abilities.
5. New (Engaging) Career
Have you ever wanted to dive into a new career, but never thought you’d have the chance? Employers today are looking for employees with adaptable soft skills, that translate into success. So, highlight your ability to communicate, put your critical thinking skills on display, or demonstrate your creativity. Now is the time to consider what interests you and take the chance.
Not sure where to start? Write down your core values and see if any align with your interests. Then, build a candidate brand that adheres to the position. Hiring managers are looking for out-of-the-box ways to hire; you just might get what you want.
