Communications of the ACM
Improving the Odds For Changing Jobs
Credit: Perry Public Library
Encouraged by signs of an improving hiring environment, many people are actively seeking out new career opportunities in the hope of landing a new job. However, employment experts caution that moving too quickly could land you in a new job that you dislike even more. To improve the odds of finding the right job opportunity, first re-evaluate your current employment situation and consider the pros and cons of your current job. Then, reach out to your network and do your homework on the companies that interest you. When you do get an offer from a company that interests you, carry out the appropriate due diligence about the company as well as your future job functions.
First, re-evaluate your employment situation and think about why you're dissatisfied at your current job. If you aren't challenged enough, there might be a way to make a change without leaving. Look for job openings in other departments or at higher levels that you may qualify for with some additional extended education or skills and ask your manager to support your effort to get the training you need. If the opportunities just aren't there or you're simply dissatisfied, tap your personal and professional network for information on who is hiring. Many job postings go up with a candidate in mind already, if you know someone at the companies you are targeting, work to get personal referrals.
When you land an interview, use the opportunity to learn about the company. You should get as much from them as they will try to get from you. Don't be shy about calling for more information and contact current and former employees, if possible, to get a feel for the company and opportunities. If you get an offer, before you accept, consider doing more in-depth financial research on the company. Whatever you do, don't quit your job until you're certain you're hired. Even if a job offer seems imminent, there are a lot of things that can happen at the last minute.
From The Wall Street Journal
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