If you're like many people, your career has had its peaks and valleys. When you've hit a valley, you've naturally wondered if you're in the right job at all. Leaving your old job behind for something new sounds appealing, but is a new job really necessary? You may find that with a bit of tweaking, your current position could become satisfying again.
Consider the tangible and intangible elements you need to enjoy your work. Is your job inherently a poor match with who you are? Or do you basically like the work you do, but dislike certain elements associated with it? Review the checklist below, and add your own criteria to discover what needs to change in order for you to enjoy your job.
I Could Like My Current Job More If:
I had more autonomy and could make more decisions.
I had more direction and supervision from my superior.
I had more people contact.
I had less people contact.
I received more recognition for my work.
I worked different hours.
I had an office versus a cube.
I got a raise.
I didn't have to travel so much.
I had the opportunity to travel more.
I was promoted.
I didn't have quite so much responsibility.
I could delegate a few tasks to someone else.
I could take on bigger professional challenges.
I could change the physical surroundings in which I work.
I had a mentor.
I could work in a different department.
I had a different boss.
Are there ways to incorporate these changes into your current position? You may be surprised to find that even one or two adjustments can make the difference between merely tolerating your job and truly enjoying it. Find a way to talk with your supervisor about possible changes. If you're a valued worker, your employer may be anxious to accommodate your wish list so you don't seek professional fulfillment elsewhere. Present your case as a win/win scenario that demonstrates how the changes you desire will benefit both you and your employer.
Changing jobs is serious business. Yet without carefully considering what you need to be happy, the same trouble spots can resurface in a new job. Once you've thought things through, you might discover the perfect job is the one you already have.