Switching Jobs: When to Make Your Move

Posted on Sep 16th 2009, 03:34 am, under Career Advice

Let's say you're working right now, and another company offers you a position for more money than you're getting at your current job. It sounds like a great deal, and it looks like you should waste no time in seizing that offer. But is that really your best option?

There isn't a single correct answer for everyone; it depends entirely on the individual circumstances. However, there are several critical questions you should ask yourself before you decide to change jobs:

1. What are your professional goals?

You probably have an idea of the long-term path you want for your career. So ask yourself before taking that new job: will it get you any closer to your ultimate professional goal? Does it open any new opportunities for you that are unavailable elsewhere? If it doesn't do any of these things, you might want to reconsider that decision.

2. Is it a short-term project?

In other words, if that new company is only bringing you in to address an immediate, specific problem, don't expect them to keep you around for very long. On the other hand, if they clearly indicate that they want you as a long-term employee, ask yourself first if that fits your personal plans.

3. What happens afterwards?

In case you actually do take them up on their offer but get laid off in the future, where do you go? Will you be in a good position to transition to another job? Or will it put you in an even more difficult spot?

4. Who wants to hire you?

Get better information on your options by doing some thorough research on the new firm's background. Don't limit yourself to the general overview; if possible, get information about the particular department they want you to join. In addition, don't just look at the company website. Forums and message boards can give you additional details about the firm, especially if it's a public company. Does it have a good working environment? What is its reputation? What are its business practices? You should also check the news on the latest events and changes affecting the firm, including acquisitions, mergers, financial problems, and management reshuffles. And finally, ask the hiring officer why the position is available. Is it because the company is expanding or launching a new product? Or was it because the last hire didn't suit them?

5. Could you get more money right now?

If the new job offers you a salary that’s better than your current one, you might be able to negotiate a pay increase for your current job. Of course, you’ll have to gauge your chances and proceed with caution. This all hi nges on how you present the idea to your boss. For example, get a chance to talk with your current boss privately. Say that a competitor offered you a position, and that you talked with them to get a better idea of the industry. Then say that you were surprised when they offered you more than your current paycheck, and ask if you could talk about that now with your boss. Emphasize that you're happy where you are, but that it's hard to leave an offer like that on the table. Hopefully your boss will see your side.