If you’re feeling fed up at work, we can safely say that you’re not alone. Research suggests that over a third of the nation dislike their current job and think about quitting frequently or often.
The solution for that? Hunt around for something new.
To make sure that you’re not experiencing a short stint of the blues and are in fact in a poor position at work, there are six fair reasons you should quit your job and move on.
1. You’re not paid your worth
Feeling underpaid or undervalued is never a pleasant thing to experience. If you have a niggling feeling that you aren’t paid your worth then you must voice your concerns before you jack it all in.
Firstly, remember that your employer shouldn’t expect you to do your job for virtually free. Pay particular attention to this if you’re in a junior role or are young in age as it could be a sign of discrimination under the Equality Act, 2010.
Before you approach the subject of salary with your boss, familiarise yourself with how much you should be earning. Consider your level of industry experience, your qualification and the average earnings for someone in your role and your location.
Most companies operate on an annual salary review system, which is your chance to address your salary concerns. However, if you’ve been given an increased workload or responsibility, it may be time to broach the subject earlier.
If you feel you’re taking on more above your pay grade with no clear signs of your salary or responsibility budging, this is a fair reason to consider moving on.
2. You no longer fit with the company culture
Job hunters are always told that it’s not just about making sure whether they are a fit for the company, but also whether the company is a fit for them.
The ideal company culture is one that suits your personality and where the employer respects and rewards staff, via employee perks and other morale boosters, for example.
If you feel that your company’s culture has declined or perhaps that you have outgrown it, it might be time to look for an organisation that’s more suitable for you.
3. You can’t progress
Lack of training or development opportunities is often a key reason people quit their jobs.
The term “climbing the career ladder” is one to be taken literally, as throughout your career you should expect to learn, grow and progress. And employers know this.
Not only is your growth for personal satisfaction, but because it’s also a key way businesses experience successes in our dynamic working world too.
But if you’re starting out somewhere, you’ve remained static despite talking to your boss about the responsibility you’d like to have and the only way you’re growing is uncomfortable, it’s time to look for a more senior position that provides you with the growth you need.
4. Your workload is unreasonable
Are you physically, emotionally or mentally exhausted? Your workload is probably swamping you.
One way to tackle this issue is by requesting an extra pair of hands. Show your employer what you’re struggling with, what you’ve tried to do to resolve this solo, and what some extra resource would enable.
If you’ve tried to no avail to ease your workload and your work-life balance and health are suffering, then this is a fair reason to start looking around to find a company that values you.
5. There’s poor management
Bad management is often a top reason for professionals wanting to quit their job. Whether you’re being left to fend for yourself, you’re being micromanaged, or you’re no more than a cog in a corporate machine, now is the time to act on your feelings.
Since your boss is the problem, it’s a good idea to speak with them directly about what’s bothering you – although do remember to be tactful and professional with your approach, no matter how fed up you are.
If talking to your boss seems like an impossible task, your next best port of call is HR. However, if there doesn’t seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel after the discussion, it’s probably time to start looking for a role where you’ll be managed appropriately.
6. You’ve lost your passion
If your personal goals no longer match your employer’s mission, or somehow your place of work has managed to suck the soul out of something you once loved, it might be time to quit your job and move on.
Before you make the jump, think about ways you could improve the situation. It might simply be a case of tapping into your skills again and showing your boss why you’re capable of managing more responsibilities.
But research suggests that prolonged feelings of boredom is just your mind trying to tell you that you’re not doing what you want and are searching for more meaning. Therefore, listen to the science and start hunting around for a place that wants you to utilise your talent.
Ready to take the plunge and search for a new job that suits you, upload your CV today.
About the author: Laura Slingo is Digital Copywriter for the UK’s leading independent job board, CV-Library. For more expert advice on job searches, careers and the workplace, visit their Career Advice pages.