Four Signs It's Time For A Career Change

There isn't a single one of us who hasn't felt a touch of the blues as another weekend draws to a close and Monday 
morning looks, or found ourselves sat at our desks dreaming of being on a desert island instead or counting down 
the minutes until a painfully slow meeting ends. Feeling frustrated occasionally is all a part of working life. Despite 
the constant lesson we've been told from childhood that if we do what we love, it won't feel like work, the truth is 
that you're paid to deal with situations that you'd sometimes rather not- that's why it's called work and not a hobby! 
But how do you tell the difference between that, and a completely unfulfilling career that you need to take steps to 
change? When do a few bad days turn into a reason to start looking for your next move? These signs may show 
you the way..

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You Feel Undervalued

Pouring blood, sweat and tears into your work only to have it go completely unrecognised is a really defeating 
experience. While no one should need constant praise for doing what they are employed to do, if you aren't getting 
any recognition when you go above and beyond, it can be very damaging. If your boss consistently overlooks your 
efforts, it's not just demoralising for you - it can be a sign that you're not going to be given the opportunities you 
need to advance or be considered for promotion opportunities.

You're Not Learning Anything

Building a career is about stepping outside of your comfort zone. Not so far out that you feel overwhelmed and can't 
cope, but in the sweet spot where there is just enough of a challenge to keep you engaged and learning new skills. 
If you feel like you've been stagnating for a number of months, and you've tried requesting more complex projects 
with little result, it could be time to start looking for those opportunities elsewhere.

You're Being Underpaid

Money isn't the be all and end all when it comes to your career, but it is linked to being valued, and if you aren't 
being paid enough, it could also be a sign that your contribution isn't being appreciated. Use recruitment sites 
like mselect.iq to keep a track of the market and what similar positions are recruiting at. If you are paid 
significantly less than the going rate, and your employer is not willing to negotiate on a raise, then that can be a 
really strong signal that it's time to pursue new opportunities.

The Situation Has Changed

The one constant in life is change - and in the workplace bosses, company missions, life situations and job 
descriptions can change too. That means that what may once have been the perfect job may not be working out 
anymore. If you feel that your role no longer aligns with your ambitions, it's definitely time to re-evaluate. Take 
some time off from the daily grind and see how you feel on your return - if the answer is uninspired then it could 
well be time to plan your next move.