Lately, we have many young people running out or being chased out of jobs than those getting in and the reasons are quite diverse from Nepotism to lack of experience that the CV mentioned, to carelessness, to unproductivity and whatnot – Trust me, the reasons are quite many.
However, when it comes to changing careers by personal volition, things take a different turn. Change of career is very exciting as new teams and experiences await you but you should not forget that so do the troubles that come with the job.
Quit when your goals, and aspirations are not in line with the job/career that you are pursuing. It’s important to have your goals mirrored in the work that you do. However, Do Not quit when you are already achieving your goals – It’s possible to get the I made it mentality but let it not lead you astray.
Quit when your workplace is toxic. Let’s face it, mental health is eating us up like a pandemic and your mental health should always be a priority, let no one tell you otherwise. Do Not quit when your work place is home away from home. If a work place gives you the resources and freedom to grow in your career freely, and cares about your mental health, why leave. This is the perfect place to cultivate your culture, so why not grow in the ranks?
Quit if your job takes you from your friends and family for a very long period of time. I am not talking about working upcountry, so don’t get me wrong. If your job entails being away from family and friends for far too long, you might want to quit. Our friends and family are the backbone of who we are and when you get ill or die (God forbid), your workmates will take you back to them. Do Not quit if your place gives you the monotony of being home to the extent that extra hours are even paid for. Such work places understand the work – family – friends balance and what it can do to a person, embrace them.
Do Not quit because they are giving you little pay unless someone else is willing to pay you more and even then, don’t rush until you have a signed agreement in hand. Many young people want that job that you now despise as much as they want the one you are also eyeing. Don’t be greedy, be smart.
Unless you have been fired, Do Not quit your job before you have Plan B. Most young people quit because they feel privileged and they think jobs are waiting for them. Others quit out of pride (I am a culprit of this one) only to suffer on the streets. Others quit because they see their self employed comrades enjoying a good life – little do they know the truth. Don’t you dare quit before your plan B is solid.
Your situation might be different but before you make that major career decision, take time off and get off your high horse to think deeply about the consequences and benefits. Lately we have many young people spending less than 6 months at a job – your CV shall have all over 10 previous jobs in a space of three years and the recruitment team won’t even give you that interview.
