Planning To Look For A Better Job? Understand All Your Currencies.

McKinsey threw down the gauntlet more than a decade ago by stating that talent, not strategy, research, capital, etc. will be the difference maker when it comes to whether a company thrives or not in the future.   More recently, it’s been predicted that as the economy improves, people who have stayed in their jobs during tough times, may be ready to make a move.   The next twelve months will challenge companies to consider strategies for keeping their most talented people and tempt top employees to seek greener pastures.  Let’s take a look at the situation from both sides.  This week, I’ll focus on employees.

From the employee side, here are some items to consider if you’re thinking about making a move:

1) Write down the reasons you would want to leave and be specific as possible.   What can be done to improve your current situation?  I dare say that no place is perfect, so ask yourself if you’re ready to trade familiar challenges for unknown ones.

2) If it’s about money, then consider how you can make this known to your employer.  ( I believe an employer deserves the opportunity to be asked). Sometimes, receiving higher pay is as much about communication as it is about money.  Also, if you’re going to ask for a raise or larger bonus, then make the case for the value you bring to the organization.  Ask about accepting other responsibilities that could make you more of an impact player and justify higher compensation. Look for the win-win!

3) If it’s not about the money, then your discontent could range from unfriendly co-workers to bad managers to boredom to feeling that your work is not purposeful.   Can anything be done to improve your circumstances? If not, ask yourself how you will go about assessing the environment of a prospective new employer to assure that you won’t face the same issues somewhere else.

4) Take a hard look in the mirror.  Are you as good as you think you are? Think about what or how you may be contributing to your discontent and whether you are willing to change either in your current job or in any new job you may decide to accept.   If you’re honest about the common denominators in your life and how you contribute to them, it can make a huge difference in your future success.

5) As you contemplate changing jobs, think about all of your currencies.  So beyond salary and bonus,  consider your professional relationships (inside and outside the office), the learning environment, your prospects for advancement, the feeling of purpose you have in your work, etc.   If we look at all of our currencies, most of us receive far more than we give to any organization.  Take stock of all of them before you decide to jump ship.

I encourage you to add to the list!  Next week, let’s talk about what employers can do to keep their very best people!

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