Construction occupations offer a variety of advantages, including job security and good salaries. It is also possible to begin earning a decent living while performing meaningful work. However, there will come a time when moving to another construction company is inevitable. To prevent getting caught in a dead-end career, it's critical to maintain flexibility in your working life. If you notice any of these warning signs, it may be time to make a change. Here are a few indicators that it's time to move on.
If you're not satisfied at the end of the day. Find a job that gives you more positive energy than negative energy. There's a fine line between being a little nervous about a project and dreading it. If you're frequently complaining to your family and friends about your job, it's time to look for something more fulfilling.
When your boss has unreasonable expectations of you. This is a classic indicator that things are about to go bad. Never put your own well-being on the line for the sake of your job. Take steps to improve your work-life balance if you don't have enough time to exercise, eat well, sleep, and so on. Find a job that allows you to be more flexible and fosters a healthy work-life balance.
If the values, culture, or mission of the company are no longer a good fit. When you've worked for the same company for a long time, quitting might be a difficult decision. You might not fit the new work culture and would be better suited elsewhere as the second and third generations move forward to take over the business.
If the company only offers lateral career opportunities. If your company offers no meaningful opportunities for promotion, you might want to look elsewhere. Staying in the same work for an extended period can be detrimental to your career. You don't want to be known as a job hopper, but staying in the same position for a long time without being promoted can indicate a lack of motivation to future employers. If your job doesn't promote professional progress, it's fine to change after three to five years.
When a company fails to pay its bills or subcontractors. Keep an eye out for these red flags that the company isn't operating effectively. Other examples could be if the company is having trouble obtaining construction materials or begins to make shortcuts on safety…….be cautious.
Before making any hasty decisions, consider the benefits and disadvantages of your existing position. Because passive applicants are constantly in higher demand, it's easier to get a better job while you're still working. It's also crucial to leave on good terms in order to keep a positive reputation in the industry. Finally, be prepared to reply to a counteroffer, as your current company will almost certainly make one in response to your decision to quit.
How can we help?
Have any of these points hit a nerve? Our consultants can help you with career planning by delving a bit deeper into what it is that you enjoy about your position and what you don't. Get in touch today getus@jamesgrayengineering.com