Thinking of Quitting Your Job? Read This First

You're sitting at your desk, aggravated and fed up with your current situation, and think to yourself, “I don’t need to do this anymore!” I get it, I’ve been there. We are no longer in the era of staying at a job or in a position for decades even if we aren't happy or being given opportunities to grow. Everyone from drive-thru workers to corporate executives are realizing that they deserve to be paid well for their efforts and treated like human beings and not robots. However, is it possible that sometimes we jump the gun, and don't give ourselves or the job a chance to become what we need it to be? Have some of us also developed a sense of entitlement for rewards and opportunities that we haven’t earned or aren’t truly ready for? I am a firm believer that before making a decision, I must first look inward, and see how my own behavior or lack thereof has affected my current position. Here are some questions to ask yourself before turning in your two weeks notice:

• Have I expressed to my boss that I would like more opportunities to grow and showcase my skills?

• Have I asked for the raise I believe I deserve and do I have proof of my value to the company to back up my request?

• How long have I actually been at this company? Have I given myself time to get through the growing pains/adjustment period that comes with starting a new job/position?

• Have I expressed to my boss that I think my skills could be better utilized in a different capacity?

• Have I taken the time to get to know my team and co-workers better in a way that would improve my daily experience with them?

• If I received the promotion I believe that I deserve, can I perform the required duties at the capacity that I would need to to be successful?

• What is the current market rate for my position? Am I already being paid fairly based on how others in my industry are being compensated?

• Have I asked for criticism on my performance and figured out what I can do to improve?

Now if the answer to all of these questions is “yes!” and you have done all you can to improve your work experience, spruce up your resume and start looking for your next move. We spend the majority of our lives at work, make sure you are somewhere where you feel valued, heard and supported.