Workers have been leaving their current roles at a faster rate than ever before, with journalists calling it The Great Resignation. In August of 2021, 4.3 million people quit their jobs, and employees between the ages of 30 and 45 years old had the highest resignation rate increase. If you are considering quitting your job, you are not alone and there are plenty of job openings out there for you.

However, it can be hard to know when to leave your current job, even if you are unhappy in the role. Quitting your job can be a big risk, but if you keep an eye on the warning signs from the start, then you will be able to successfully set up another job offer for a smooth transition when it's time to move on.

Here is a list of some signs it's time to find a new job.

There is No Room For Growth

As a hard-working professional, you probably have strong career goals, but if the company that you work at doesn't seem to offer room for growth, then it might be a sign it's time to leave your current work situation. 

Assess your current employer, are there higher positions that are attainable for you? Does the company promote growth? If the higher roles that you are aiming for are filled with employees who were just placed or don't seem to be going anywhere, then you might be stuck in your current situation for quite a while. Similarly, if your employer doesn't offer opportunities for you to learn and take on responsibilities, then this is a critical sign that your intrinsic goals will not be met at this employer.

With this being said, it could still be worth it to have a conversation with your supervisor about opportunities to move up and harness your transferable skills. If your manager or boss knows that you are interested in taking on more responsibility, they may be keener to promote you. 

You Have Been Waiting For A Promotion For Too Long 

If you have been a shining star at work for years without a promotion, then this could be a sign it's time to find a new job. This is especially true if your boss has even praised your work and promised a promotion in due time to no avail. It isn't uncommon for some bosses to take advantage of your efforts while gaslighting you about that raise or promotion because of office politics. 

If you have been waiting for a promotion for too long without a clear offer in sight, then it's time to shop around for other opportunities. The best strategy, in this case, is to connect with a career coach or staffing agency and check job postings frequently. You can keep your search private from your current employer, but once you rack up an offer or two, you can present it to your boss for negotiation if you are still interested in staying at the company. 

In some instances, your current employer will match or exceed the offer and you may be pleased to finally secure that promotion. In other scenarios, they will simply wish you good luck or try to convince you to stay in your current role. If this is the case take that new job and move on.

You Dread Going To Work

If you are overwhelmed with feelings of dread every day that you need to go into work then the company and the role might not be right for you. Consistent dread isn't healthy, especially if the resentment from your professional life begins to bleed into your personal life. 

Many workers experience a feeling of dread going to work because they dislike their boss or coworkers, they are sick of the cubicle life, they can't find a work-life balance, and so much more. If you feel like you would be happier in an office environment of more creative people or in a remote role where you have time for your kids, then you should prioritize the job search.

There are so many other career possibilities and opportunities out there and you shouldn't commit yourself to a long-term role that you are unhappy in. Attend some career fairs and networking events. Imagine your ideal job description and only apply to positions on a job board that fit what you are looking for. The career switch may be difficult, but when you know that you deserve better than dreading work every day, it will be easier to step out of that bad situation and closer to your dream life.

You Are Experiencing Burnout

Many full-time workers experience burnout in companies that are understaffed. If you find yourself working insane hours on weekends with no increase in pay, then you are full steam ahead towards career burnout. As humans, we aren't built to work non-stop and if your company hasn't offered you employee time off or cut down your responsibilities after you voiced a concern, then it's time to jump ship.

Learn more: Navigating Career Transitions: Tips for Making a Smooth and Successful Change

When you are experiencing burnout, it can be hard to fit in a job search because it becomes just another thing on the to-do list. However, have some conversations with friends and ask around for job openings. Set aside a short block of time a least once a week to dedicate to applying for jobs. A hiring agency can also help you find a more ideal employment situation. Staffing agencies will work with you on career planning and they have strong connections that get your resume on the table.

For more job search tips, read our blog posts How to Follow Up After A Job Interview and Habits of Highly Effective Job Seekers.

Check out our Recruitment Services to learn more about how we can help you find a new job. Contact Us to be matched with a recruiter.