3 Reasons People are Scared to Change Jobs
Moving jobs, or changing careers entirely, should be an exciting experience. Hopefully you’ll be moving up the career ladder, getting paid more, learning new skills, or simply doing something you love. But it’s not an easy transition for everyone – lots of people are worried about making such a big change.
Essentially starting from scratch, within a business or industry, can be a daunting task, and we will often make excuses as to why it’s not the right time. Even if we know it would be the best thing to do in the long run! And with the recent uncertainty within the job market, particularly since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s becoming increasingly common to be hesitant about changing jobs.
Alongside more widespread explanations, there are also more personal reasons that prevent people from looking for a new role. We’ve explored three of the main reasons individuals are scared to leave their current job below:
1. Fear of Change
It’s not a bad thing to be slightly apprehensive about the unknown. Most people like routine, and feeling comfortable about what’s coming next. This is true of our jobs as much as it is within our personal lives. The majority of employees know things like how much they’ll get paid and when, as well as who their colleagues are. Moving jobs would mean all of these things would change at once, and this is understandably daunting.
However, if you’re staying in a job you’re not passionate about, your career is bound to stagnate, and you might even be forced to leave due to a lacklustre job performance. Change can be exciting, and a new role gives you the change to grow and develop. There are bound to be a few challenges along the way, but for most people, moving jobs is the breath of fresh air they’ve been looking for.
A great way of overcoming this challenge is to write down a list of all the reasons why you want to leave your current role. Then, if you’re ever doubting your decision to change jobs, you can refer back to this list to remind yourself of the frustrations you were facing previously.
Change of Salary
When it comes to a fear of change, salary is one of the major concerns. Although people often try to move to a role which pays better, there is always the worry that you’ll be forced to take a pay cut. Especially if you’re changing careers and need to work your way back up the career ladder.
It’s important to carefully consider whether a lower salary would really impact you that much. Would you be earning enough to cover your expenses? And it may be worth the pay-off at the end – you’ll be widening your skillset, and potentially getting on a path to a much higher wage later down the line. Not to mention the fact that you may be much happier in your new role.
Change of Colleagues
In terms of working with new people, and not knowing how to interact with them, it’s good to bear in mind that you can’t get along with everyone. You may have made friends at your current company, but there are probably still people you don’t really speak to. The same will be true for your new job – working as part of a team, you’re bound to find like minded individuals.
When you start a new role, there’s also a high likelihood that your team members will make an extra effort to make you feel welcome. You’re there to help share the load, and make their lives a little bit easier!
2. Disregarding Experience
There’s a good chance that you’ve spent years building up your skills and experience within your current job role. And if you won’t need some of these skills in a new position, it can be painful to leave them behind. The trick is to think more laterally – although you may not be using the exact skills you’ve acquired, your knowledge might be used elsewhere. You’re probably just applying yourself differently.
A great way of conquering this fear of wasting your experience is to speak to others who have moved jobs recently. Ask them whether they were faced with this challenge, and if so, how they dealt with it. You may know deep down that this isn’t something to be concerned about, but it’s always reassuring to hear that someone else has had a similar experience.
3. Making Waves for Others
You may not be the only person impacted by your moving jobs. Perhaps you have a partner or dependents that rely on your income. Or maybe you’re thinking about your colleagues, who may find it hard should you leave. But ultimately, it’s your decision. While you probably don’t want to inconvenience anyone, if you’re unhappy in your current job, they should understand why you’re making the change.
If you work in a close knit team, and this is what makes your role enjoyable, it can be difficult to give this up. However, if you want to move forward in your career, it may be best to leave before you become too entrenched! And remember, you can still see your colleagues socially – you don’t have to stop being friends with them when you leave the company.
Overall, the best way to overcome this challenge is to be completely transparent. Let your friends and loved ones know about the change you’re considering, and have an open discussion about it. It may surprise you how encouraging people will be, which will be helpful when facing the job market!
Looking to Change Jobs?
If you’re ready to boldly venture into pastures new, it may be sensible to speak with a recruitment agency like Pineapple Recruitment. We can discuss any concerns you may have, and ensure that your transition into a new role is as smooth as possible. We have found roles for people across a wide range of industries and professions, so can offer help and support even if you’re looking to change careers entirely.
Recruitment specialists are also great at getting your CV and cover letter up to scratch, as well as helping you prepare for interviews. We want to help you stand out from the crowd, so that you can find a new role that suits you. Contact us today to find out more!