Looking for a job change? It is one of the most significant decisions of your life, so do not rush!!! An array of questions is needed to be asked before you take the first step. To begin with consider these points –

 

Evaluate your reasoning,

Establish what you are looking for

Have complete understanding of the job

Consider company growth and advancement

Consider personal growth and advancement opportunity

Consider the salary and compensation package

Compare the company culture

 

 

In most cases we look for a change as we are dissatisfied with our current job. This can get trick, as under such situations we tend to just looking for a quick fix. On the other hand, if one finds that he/she is unenthusiastic to quit the current job in spite of not enjoying it, one must ask if trepidation or torpor might be driving the reasoning.

 

Another very critical question to ask is – which job has more room for advancement? Find out if there still opportunity for growth at the current job position, or does the new job hold more promises for the future? Aspects like company size and turnover must be taken into consideration as each company offers different growth opportunities. If the new job role appears to be a step ahead now, but offers lesser opportunities for growth later, you should not switch just yet.

 

Before you take the plunge, here are a few of the many issues experts say you should consider:

 

Expectations

Sit back and review your priorities: is pay package the most important aspect for you at this point? Are you ready to let go a high payment for better corporate culture and bigger responsibilities? Having explicit opportunities in mind is a good idea; make a list of pros and cons. If the opportunity at hand has lots going for it, but lacks in the thing most imperative to you, it might not be the right one for you.

 

Work environment

Walk around the workplace and see how people interact. Try and gauge the professional atmosphere and see if you will you fit in and also if you will be able to communicate openly with various levels of management.

Also see if the environment is collaborative and if you are going to be challenged at the new workplace. Assess your scope of growth and find out if you will have the opportunity to earn more if you attain a higher degree or certification.

Do a thorough research of the company and see if it has recently merged with another, or is it considering a merger as such an action could affect your job security.

 

Work/life balance

Equipoise of career goals and lifestyle is vital. Before saying yes to your new job, enquire about company’s culture, hours of a typical work day etc. Try to gauge the new employer’s expectations from you. For instance, are you expected to be on call over holidays or on the weekend? Are you expected to respond to emails and phone calls after working hours?

 

Professional relationships

Those new to a job and already thinking of switching, or the ones contemplating job switch immediately, must consider the bridges they will burn by making a hasty change.

 

Commuting time

It might seem trivial, but experts say long commutes (more than 30 minutes one way) causes weight gain, stress, and affects mood. Hence, it is important to know commute time — and ensure variables like train and bus timings or rush hour traffic that might come into play.

 

Location

Those relocating to a new city/country for your new job must ask this crucial question. Do extensive home work and research on the potential new place, and do find out the essentials like cost of living, recreational activities, and cultural trends.

 

Salary

By all mean consider if the new salary is comparative to the current one.  Also if you’re uncertain about the standard payment for someone at your professional level do a little research and find out what people in your domain and at your seniority level are being paid.

 

Benefits

When it comes to jobs, opting for the one with the best salary package seems like an obvious choice. However, it’s essential to consider the total package: including health insurance and retirement plans. Also take a keen look at the other job benefits, like – flexible schedules, maternity leave and vacation. It’s vital to mull over everything provided in the package— before you make out what will serve you best.