Well, now that the recovery is “officially” on its way…pay no attention to the man behind the curtain. You may be feeling a bit frisky, you may in fact be feeling like things are so good that its time to take a leap of faith and search for a new job! If you have been diligent like we have all been taught and saved for a rainy day, you may decide its time the tell your boss exactly where he can stick that unappreciative attitude and leave with a feeling of satisfaction you haven’t had since…2007? 2006?
But as the Lone Ranger used to say, “Not so fast kee-moe-saabi!”
The recession is far from over; job postings and business growth are approached with caution. In fact, I have seen many economists suggest it will be 2nd qtr 2011 before we see some real job growth (election years have a drag on real change). So with these facts in mind, take a deep breath, bite your lip, put away the Norma Rae speech and think long and hard before you take your last stand. I don’t suggest you put up with anything unethical, or subject yourself to bullying by some small manager taking advantage of the system, but it’s always…and I do mean ALWAYS…better to look for a job when you have a job.
But looking for a job is a full-time job, isn’t it? Yes, but you are also less inclined to find yourself right where you are now (working for some jerk that doesn’t appreciate your efforts!) if you are not under the gun to take the first thing that comes your way. Also, hiring managers like to see someone that is employed. They think, “If this person survived the cuts then they must be good!” Folks out of work are a plentiful; in fact 1 in 10 in the United States is looking for a job. My point is, if you have put up with an unhappy workplace this long, then stay the course and plan your exit strategy. Start networking again – sign up for those industry events, call friends that you have put off…get moving! But don’t make the mistake of thinking it’s easy to find a new gig. I promise you one thing though; it’s much easier with a job than without!
Career-Forward, a Northeast Ohio-Based Career Management Firm specializes in career coaching, resume makeovers and job search assistance.
