The average employee changes jobs about 12 times over their lifetime, with nearly half of those occurring between the ages of 18 and 24 (Source: The Balance). The era of lifelong careers has faded. With more baby boomers retiring and more millennials entering the job market over the next decade, we can expect to see even more of this—along with a growing need for staffing solutions—unless employers act and learn how to motivate employees to stay.
Can you identify with these four reasons why people leave their employment?
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- You are financially motivated. You may want to make more money or receive better benefits. You may want to work closer to home or have more flexibility with your hours. More money doesn’t always mean you will be happier with your job, but if the job change creates other desired shifts such as a shorter or less expensive commute or the opportunity to work-from-home, it may be the change you are desire.
Before jumping ships for financial reasons, test out your theory. What else will be changing? Will you now need to bring lunch or buy? Will you be paying for parking or transportation? What other impacts on your finances are you looking for the change to bring? - The future looks bleak. Technology is evolving faster than ever, creating new roles like “app developer” while phasing out others.
When was the last time you saw a job posting for a milkman or switchboard operator? These jobs still exist, but not at the scale they once did.
Being realistic about the future of your career is essential. You might decide to return to school or apply your transferrable skills to a new path. The US Department of Labor Statistics provides extensive information on career outlooks. A career coach can also help guide your next steps. - Your interests have changed. If you have been in your career for a long time, your life and lifestyle likely have changed, too.n Your family or home may have grown, or you may now be an empty-nester and have new priorities. Consider how your ideal job would look if you prioritized your changed interests.You may have taken on a new hobby that brings more balance to your life, and your job needs to follow suit. Determine if your current position can accommodate these changes. If not, consider what type of employment would.
- You are burnt out. There are times in life where we just stressed or burn out. It could be personal dynamics at play or just the day-to-day stress of the career you have chosen. You may be able to modify the work you do or change positions to resolve this, but if your work situation is unsafe (emotionally or physically), it is time to go. Hostile work environments are never appropriate and your health and well-being come first.
Consider finding work you enjoy again that is a better fit.
- You are financially motivated. You may want to make more money or receive better benefits. You may want to work closer to home or have more flexibility with your hours. More money doesn’t always mean you will be happier with your job, but if the job change creates other desired shifts such as a shorter or less expensive commute or the opportunity to work-from-home, it may be the change you are desire.
If you are looking to make a career change, Colorado Network Staffing (CNS) can help you find your right-fit employer. CNS is a leader in staffing, staff augmentation, and contract management by acting as a sole human resource provider for our clients. Don’t waste your time, energy, or happiness in a job that isn’t a good fit. CNS has the experience, resources, and top-level management expertise to pair the best and brightest job seekers with top-notch employers. Contact us at 303-430-1441 to get started.
