Larry on Careers: Exit a Dead-End Job 3: Move to Another Company

Friday, March 22, 2013

Exit a Dead-End Job 3: Move to Another Company

This continues our series to help all of you who feel trapped in a dead-end job to find an exit

Justin felt trapped in the job he held for 7 years. His forecast for the future did not indicate future growth. He and five others would compete for his manager’s position if the manager ever moved. However, his manager was in his late 30’s and did not seem to have any growth potential having been passed over for promotion three times. Justin could transfer to other stores around him, but they also had 16 middle aged managers all competing for 1 divisional manager’s slot. Justin decided to find a job with a competitor. His new job paid 18% more, a promotion, and several avenues for further growth. Justin received two more promotions within 12 years.

When to Consider Changing Companies

Some people move to another company every five years if they do not progress within the company. Some people consider staying with one company without frequent promotion taints your reputation. Others may consider you stagnant, unmotivated, or not promotable. Some people accept that personal ambition replaced loyalty as a positive attribute years ago.

I find that thinking flawed. You still must perform well, but wise companies reward performance and loyalty.

Nevertheless, the following situations may dictate you change companies:

Small, family-owned companies that give the responsible positions to family members
Small branch offices where promotions require relocating & you don’t want to move
Assignments that lack challenge or motivation and your skills are atrophying
Lack of challenge leads to poor performance with an eventual termination
Possible despair or depression resulting from an unfulfilling or rewarding job
Management passes you over 3-5 times for promotion

Downside to Changing Companies

You should consider the following challenges when contemplating changing companies. You may