There is no doubt that many of us have experienced that feeling of weariness and dread on the Sunday night before the start of a working week. The thought of Monday can be enough to get some employees thinking about sprucing up their CV and launching into a new Construction and Engineering job search. We all hit a wall sometimes – a place where quitting seems like the only option. However, the question is, how can you tell if deciding to leave a job is the right thing to do? The next time you find yourself struggling to make the choice, consider some of these tips to help make the right call.
Step Back
When deciding to quit a job, it’s worthwhile taking pause and removing all emotions from the picture. Asking some pragmatic questions will serve the ultimate decision well. What could be causing this situation? Is it as bad as it seems? Gain clarity on what isn’t sitting well and what steps can be taken to improve the circumstances. Perhaps the HR department or a manager can help iron out the issues?
Take a Break
Working long periods without a break can lead to fatigue and illness. When was your last holiday? After all, your employment contract is designed with annual leave for a reason. Contractors and casual workers (or those who feel they cannot afford to get away) should still take some time to recharge their batteries. A little hiatus from work needn’t cost the earth and will offer clarity from a distance.
Decide if You Can Afford It
Life’s fiscal commitments coupled with the uncertainty around when the next salary will be can be a heavy consideration when deciding to leave a job. Can you afford a few months off? Should the answer be no, it may be best to focus on making changes within the role or situation to improve it. Whilst the state of the Construction & Engineering market means it’s likely you won’t be out of work for long, it’s best to be prepared. Alternatively, think about what your next position will look like and the actions necessary to achieve that goal. In the interim, make a budget, save and plan well before you jump.
Change the Situation (or Change Yours)
When determining what to do when you want to quit your job, it’s important to ascertain if every effort has been made to make the role as fulfilling as possible. Did you always feel this way about the job? What aspects have changed and when did this happen? Job satisfaction is underpinned by a number of essential factors, from engaging work, team culture, fair pay and job security, to autonomy and the company ethos, to name a few. Take the factors that matter the most and discuss them with management. There could be potential opportunities for you to explore outside your everyday responsibilities that meet your needs.
If, however, there is resistance to your requests and your boss isn’t likely to budge, then it could be time to start looking elsewhere.
Reconnect With Your Network
It’s easy to lose contact with personal and professional networks as we go about daily living. Interestingly, everyone is in the same boat! It doesn’t matter if you have lost touch with a colleague you had great respect for; it’s never too late to get in contact. By keeping in touch, you may also uncover new opportunities in the hidden job market. These connections could also provide insight into other organisations and industries, where the grass may truly be greener.
Summary
When that feeling of distress strikes on a Sunday night and you feel like you have had enough, take comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Rather than deciding to leave a job in haste and frustration, take a step back and figure out what you need to do before taking the next step. Once you have considered all your options and decided you’re ready for a fresh start, we are here to help steer your career in the right direction. For support finding Construction & Engineering jobs, get in touch with the team.
