To Hop or Not to Hop: Ask Margaret

Q. There is a position I want at another company, and I would love to make a change – yet I am concerned about the economy. I might leave this job (which may or may not be secure) only to face a layoff at the new company. I could use some perspective here.

A. One of the most difficult conflicts you might face in today’s workplace is to hop or not to hop? Should you stay with the devil you know or take a risk on the devil you don’t know? One of the biggest concerns is job security. It’s this question, “What if I make a move and get laid off from the new company? At least at this company if I am let go I will get a better severance package.” You know logically that making decisions from a place of fear is not productive, but you are human and you don’t want to be laid off.

What should you do? Consider your decision carefully and then act firmly and confidently.  Here are some questions to help you:

• What is the worst thing that can happen if I change jobs and am I prepared to face this worst thing?
• What is the best thing that can happen if I change jobs and am I prepared to face this best thing?
• Why do I want to change jobs? To improve my salary, my commute, my role, my environment?
• Am I making this decision out of anger (mad at your boss)?
• Am I making this decision out of fear?
• What am I giving up when I leave this company and position?
• What will I gain in my new position?
• What do I expect from the new job or company, and are these expectations realistic?  (In other words, do your expectations map to a job offer that has been made in writing?)

I know you can think of more things to consider and you should! But don’t agonize. Once you have given yourself time to think about your job hop – make a move (or don’t) and do not look back!

Until next time; wishing you peace at work. Remember to send your
questions to Ask@MargaretMeloni.com.
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