Which Will You Choose and Should You Move On?

Are you one of the 41 percent of workers in Singapore, a survey done by Randstad published in The Business Times on 15 March, who would rather work remotely than receive a bonus. If the company’s move is to have you back into the office instead of working from home (WFH), will that be a catalyst for you to make that switch to a more flexible work arrangement?

Some people change their job for that vertical upward move, some for a change of lifestyle, yet some are spurred by the effects of the pandemic to take a deeper look at their lives for what gives them greater purpose.

Just what is your motivation to stay or to move on? Is there an opportunity in the current company for you to grow and shine, whether WFH or in the physical office? Whatever the motivation or reason for your decision, let us consider the benefits and drawbacks of making that job switch.

5 Benefits & 4 Drawbacks of Making that Switch 

The Benefits 

• Salary Increment

It could be a fast track to salary increment with the job hop, especially if you are a talent with in-demand skills. You will have a stronger negotiating power to request for a higher salary. Consider an attractive salary increase of a good 20% when we make that switch or even higher if you are going for a higher position.

• Career Goal

Whether it is a horizontal movement to a bigger role in a bigger organisation or a vertical upward movement to a more senior position, you are in charge. Instead of waiting for internal movement within the company or a promotion, take control of your career trajectory. Explore uncharted territory.

• Develops Adaptability

As the world of work changes, many career fields are looking for “full-stack” employees who can handle every step of a process from start to finish. When you job-hop, you combine multiple skill sets across fields into one flexible, unique-to-you career. You involuntarily need to adapt accordingly and that ability to do so develops your social skills.

• Great Exposure and Experience

Each company has its unique culture, business model, and organisation structure. Exposure to different companies exposes you to the more diverse background and styles, which may be valuable to some potential companies.

• Widen Network

Establishing relationships as we enter each company; engaging our colleagues, our clients, our leaders are part and parcel of working life. The network is built over time as we move from one company to another. When your relationship is good, a strong professional network will definitely be of help to your long-term career.

The Drawbacks

• Credibility Issue

A resume with multiple jobs listed within a short span of two years does not look good on the resume. The hiring manager may doubt your ability to contribute given that the tenancy for each job you held was less than two years, unless you were in contract jobs. Will you be able to perform well in the next job?

• Commitment issue

Questions of loyalty to the company may arise. Questions about your intention and doubts about your employability. Companies could become wary offering you employment if each job you held was less than two years.

• Personal Growth Issue

It may be exciting to switch jobs annually. It has its drawbacks, nonetheless. Leaving your job within a year may not allow you enough time to acquire the necessary skills, let alone master them. Long-term skill and experience may be compromised especially if you are still in the same industry.

• Adjustment Issue

Companies adjust their policies and schemes in tandem with the constant change in this current pandemic environment. Your adaptability is crucial when determining your career move.

Granted that moving to a new role, one has to adapt all over again – to company culture, to working style, to new colleagues – and to gain knowledge to be effectively functioning at your best. Consider the effort, time and mental strength to start proving yourself again. Or, continue in dedication and hard work at your job and hope for that promotion.

It is time to consider:

All of us have experienced periods of facing that difficult decision to let go of something that formerly offered us purpose. Decisions like a career change should be thought of carefully, considering the benefits and drawbacks. If you have been feeling stagnant, maybe it is time to reinvent yourself.

Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.

This article was prepared by Charlotte Kwang in her own personal capacity. The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the view or position of PromiseLand Independent Pte Ltd.