CNBC reported last March that there were 11.3 million job openings in February, which was 5 million more than the number of unemployed workers. However, the number of people quitting their jobs has continued to remain above historical averages. Resignation levels have been high since mid-2021, when pundits and the media coined the phrase the Great Resignation.
If you want to leave your current employer to seek greener pastures or, perhaps, a more employee-friendly environment, it remains an excellent time to do so. Perhaps the more relevant question is whether you should find a job before quitting your current one. If you are uncertain whether to re-sign vs resign, here are some thoughts to help guide you.
How to know when to leave a job:
Finances are crucial when it comes to looking for jobs, and resigning before having a new job can lead to financial stress. Consider several factors before making a decision:
Aside from finances, should also consider other factors related to your current and prospective jobs. Here are some aspects to think about:
If you have a history of leaving jobs without having another one lined up, recruiters and potential hiring managers may be curious why you did not find a job while still working. It is essential to state why you left your job and what you have done to prepare yourself for your chosen next move.
Let’s say that you decided to leave your job because your commute became too long. Explain to the interviewer that you have been networking with people in your field, taking classes to gain job skills, updating your resume, and researching various companies in your target industry.
If you left your job because you had difficulty getting along with your boss, explain to the interviewer that you have taken personal development courses and focused on building your self-confidence. You could also note that you have been networking with people in your field and researching various companies in the industry.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you now have a better idea of whether you should quit your job to pursue a new job opportunity before receiving your dream position. If you are planning on leaving your current job without having another one lined up but are not sure about it, you should definitely research possible career paths first and plan how you will take action, before submitting your resignation.
If you are now certain of what path to take, we can help! At Pathwise, we provide career development solutions that can help you be successful. We’ve built all that experience into our offerings and drawn from the wisdom of our advisory panel of career thought leaders. We're here to make it easier for you.
Get in touch with us today to see how we can help. Check out our website to learn more about the coaching and career services we offer or email us at [email protected].
In today's competitive job market, finding a new job while still employed is smart. However, it can be a challenging task that requires a strategic approach.
The last thing you want is to jeopardize your current job while searching for a new one. But with the right planning and execution, you can land a new job without burning bridges with your current employer. Here are eight ways to engage in the job search process while employed.
One of the most important things to remember when searching for a new job while employed is to keep your job search confidential. You don't want to risk losing your current job or damaging your reputation at work. Be discreet about your job search and avoid using company resources such as email, phone, or printer. Instead, use your devices and accounts to search for job listings and communicate with potential employers.
Before you start your job search, update your resume and social media profiles to reflect your current skills and experience. Ensure your resume is up-to-date and tailored to the job you are applying for. Use keywords that match the job description and highlight your accomplishments and skills. Also, update your LinkedIn profile and other social media accounts to showcase your skills and experience.
No matter how unhappy you are with your current job, avoid badmouthing your employer during interviews. Potential employers will view this as a red flag and may question your professionalism and loyalty. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of the new job and how it aligns with your career goals.
Scheduling interviews can be tricky when you are still employed. Be strategic and schedule interviews outside of work hours or during lunch breaks. Use vacation days or personal time off to attend interviews if impossible. Communicate with potential employers about your availability and be honest about your current employment status.
While searching for a new job, you must keep performing well at your current job. Don't let your job search affect your performance or productivity. Meet your deadlines, exceed expectations, and maintain good relationships with colleagues and managers. You don't want to burn bridges with your current employer, and you never know when you might need a reference or a recommendation.
When interviewing for a new job, be honest with potential employers about your current employment status. Tell them you are still employed and looking for a new job. Be honest about your reasons for leaving your current job and your availability for the new job. Honesty is always the best policy.
If you're struggling to find a new job while employed, consider hiring a career coach. A career coach can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, develop a job search strategy, and provide guidance and support throughout the job search process. They can also help you prepare for interviews and negotiate job offers.
If you land a new job, be respectful when giving notice to your current employer. Provide ample notice and offer to help with the transition process. Be professional and thank your employer for your opportunities and experiences there. You never know when you might cross paths with your former employer or colleagues in the future.
Conclusion
In today's job market, looking for a new job while still employed is wise. However, it can be a challenging task that requires a strategic approach. To find a new job without jeopardizing your current employment or damaging your professional reputation, it is essential to remember the tips above tips to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and respect. With the right planning and execution, you can find a new job that aligns with your career goals and brings you greater job satisfaction.
Ready to take your career to new heights? Let PathWise be your guide. Schedule a session with an expert career coach today!
For more on this topic, you can also check out this article on Indeed.
Relocating to a new city or state can be an exciting and challenging experience. One of the most important aspects of the relocation process is finding a new job.
Although beginning anew in a different location may appear intimidating, there are numerous career paths to explore when moving. This article will discuss tips for how to find a new job in a new city, as well as some of the top career paths for people who are relocating.
Before you move, research the job market in your new location to understand what types of jobs are in demand and the salary ranges. LinkedIn, Indeed, and other job sites can help with that. You should also develop a listing of target companies in your new area that fit with your chosen industry and role. This will help you tailor your job search to the local market.
Networking is important in all job searches but is especially key to finding a job in a new location. Reach out to local professionals in your industry and attend networking events to make connections and learn about potential job opportunities.
There are many online resources that can help you find a job in a new location, such as job boards, LinkedIn, and industry-specific websites. Make sure to create a strong online presence and tailor your resume and cover letter to the local job market.
When starting over in a new location, it’s important to be open to new opportunities and willing to take on a new role or try a new industry. This can help you build new skills and connections that can lead to future opportunities.
The healthcare industry is a growing field that almost always needs skilled professionals and is generally short-staffed at the moment. Healthcare careers range from doctors and nurses to medical assistants and administrative staff.
If you have experience in the healthcare industry, you can likely find a job in your new location relatively easily. Even if you don’t have healthcare experience, many entry-level positions can help you get your foot in the door and build experience in the profession.
Despite the tech industry layoffs that have been in the news lately, the technology industry is another growing field that offers a range of potential career paths. Many roles within the tech industry remain in high demand, from software developers to cybersecurity experts.
If you have experience in tech, you may be able to find a job in your new location relatively easily. If you don’t have experience in tech, there are a number of coding boot camps and other programs that can help you learn the necessary skills to enter the industry.
The education industry is a stable and rewarding career path that offers many opportunities for growth and advancement. Like the healthcare industry, education is facing a labor shortage in many areas. Whether you’re interested in a teaching, administration, or support staff role, there are many different options within the education industry that you can pursue.
If you have experience in education, you should be able to find a job in your new location relatively easily. If you don’t have experience in education, many programs can help you get certified fairly quickly to teach or work in a support role.
Sales is a profession that is exists in almost all industries, including retail, finance, and healthcare. If you already have sales experience, finding a job in your new location may be straightforward. However, if you lack experience in sales, there are plenty of educational options to help you acquire the skills needed to excel in this field.
Relocating to a new city or state can be a daunting experience, but it can also be an opportunity to pursue a new career path. Whether you’re interested in healthcare, technology, education, or sales, many potential career journeys can be pursued after relocating.
By researching the local job market, networking with local professionals, leveraging online resources, and being open to new opportunities, you can find a fulfilling and challenging job in your new location.
Are you ready to take the next step in your career but unsure where to start? Let PathWise be your guide. Our team of experienced career coaches can help you identify your strengths, refine your job search, and land your dream job. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward career success.
Interviews can be daunting, especially when you’re unsure how to answer difficult interview questions. Job seekers often struggle with answering dreaded interview questions that can leave them feeling exposed and under pressure.
Well don't be afraid! To help you prepare, we've assembled a list of common job interview questions heard in the hiring process and guidance on answering them effectively. With the following insights from PathWise's career coaches, you can navigate these 5 tricky questions to answer and learn how to ace the job interview.
Many people wonder why interviewers insist on asking challenging questions or delving deep into personal growth areas. Several reasons drive interviewers, including assessing how well you respond to challenges and pressure, evaluating your problem-solving abilities, and determining if you fit the company culture well. Understanding the interviewer's reasoning can guide your preparation and give you an advantage on answering the question successfully.
1. “Tell me about yourself.”
This vague question can leave candidates racking their brains uncertain about what to share. To prepare for this inquiry, craft a brief elevator pitch that highlights your professional experience, skills, and relevant accomplishments. Be sure to include aspects that demonstrate you're a good fit for the targeted job role and company.
2. “What is your greatest weakness?”
This question can make job seekers anxious, fearing they’ll expose a major flaw. To prepare for this type of inquiry, reflect on your biggest weaknesses and identify which you've improved upon or plan to work on. Be honest but pick something that doesn’t directly conflict with the job description, and explain the measures you’ve taken to improve in that area.
3. “Why did you leave your last job?” or “Why are you leaving your current job?”
This question might seem invasive, but hiring managers often ask it to gauge your career motivation and how you handle professional relationships. When answering, avoid speaking negatively about a previous employer to a potential employer. Instead, focus on your desire for growth, new challenges, or a better opportunity to align with your career goals.
4. “Why do you want to work here?”
To answer this effectively, you need to research the company beforehand. Understand its mission, values, and recent achievements. Demonstrate enthusiasm by explaining how your skills and experience align with the company's goals, mission, and culture.
5. “How do you handle stressful situations or deadlines?”
Companies value employees who can navigate high-pressure situations. To prepare for this question, consider specific examples of when you’ve faced tight deadlines or managed a challenging project. Outline the strategies you employed, such as prioritization, communication, and remaining calm under pressure.
One of the best ways to prepare for dreaded interview questions is through practice. Work with a friend, family member, or even a career coach from PathWise to conduct mock interviews. This practice allows you to refine your answers, build confidence, and receive valuable feedback all in time for the real deal.
Preparing for any interview questions can be challenging, but PathWise is here to help. By leveraging career management insights, tools, and a supportive community, you can improve your interview skills and tackle tough questions with confidence. With solid preparation and the right mindset, you'll become a standout candidate in any job application and interview, propelling your career to new heights.
PathWise empowers you to take control of your career by providing a combination of career management knowledge, resources, mentors, and networks. If you are looking for a career coach to set you up for a successful career, work with us today!
Making decisions about our careers can be one of the most daunting tasks we face. We spend all too much of our lives trying to figure out what direction to take, and it can feel like a never-ending cycle of indecision. You may feel like you’re at a crossroads when it comes to your career, unsure of which path to choose and if its time to move on.
Being at the crossroads with your career can be a confusing and overwhelming experience, but it is also an opportunity for growth and discovery. It’s a chance to take a step back and evaluate your current situation and determine what direction you want to take for the future. How to decide to change jobs is a daunting task, but is a pivotal life moment.
When making choices about your career, always remember to put yourself first. It’s important to think about what is best for you and your future rather than what other people may want or expect from you. Think about what will make you happy and fulfilled in the long term and short term, don’t be afraid to take risks and explore different paths. Chose a path that won't inflate your stress levels.
Before making any career decisions, it’s important to introspect. Take the time to reflect on where you are in your career life and what you want to achieve. Think about what you’re passionate about and what skills could be applied in a new direction. By understanding your current situation, you will be better equipped to make an informed decision about your future.
Another key step is to seek support from people who know you best. Surround yourself with people who can provide you with honest feedback about your goals and ambitions. This could include family members, close friends, industry peers, or a career coach. They can offer valuable advice and guidance essential to the decision making process for your career.
Take the time to envision your ideal work life. Consider the type of work you desire to do and the environment in which you want to work. Think about the type of company you want to work for, the people you want to work with, the location, and the hours you’d like to work. By visualizing your ideal work life, you can begin to narrow down the type of job or career you want to pursue.
Now that you have a clear vision of your ideal work life, it’s time to explore the possibilities. Research different job opportunities, industries, and companies to find the perfect fit for you. Take the time to explore the different job roles, responsibilities, and qualifications needed for each position.
Once you’ve identified the type of job you want, it’s time to start putting yourself out there. Update your resume and online profiles, and start applying for jobs. Reach out to contacts in your desired industry and let them know you’re looking for a job. Networking is a great way to make connections and find leads to help on your job search.
Conclusion
In conclusion, being at a crossroads with your career can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. However, there are many strategies that you can take and people you can talk to in order to help you make the right choice for your career.
In need of career coaching? PathWise puts you in charge of your career, through a mix of career advice, management insights, tools, coaches and communities. Get in touch with us today!
Inclusive workplaces are becoming increasingly important to attracting and retaining top talent. They not only foster a sense of belonging and respect, but they also provide numerous benefits to both employer and employee experiences. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of diverse and inclusive workplaces and how career coaching can help companies achieve them.
When people feel safe, included, and valued, they’re more likely to be engaged in their work. Inclusive workplaces foster a sense of belonging and create a positive work environment that encourages employees to contribute their best work. According to a study by Deloitte, companies that prioritize inclusive company culture are 1.7 times more likely to be innovative and have 2.3 times higher cash flow per employee.
Inclusive workplaces bring together team members from diverse talents, backgrounds and experiences, which can lead to increased creativity and innovation. When employees feel comfortable sharing their unique perspectives and ideas, it can lead to new solutions and approaches to problems. Inclusive workplaces also encourage employees to challenge their own biases and assumptions, leading to better decision-making.
Employees who feel valued and included are more likely to stay with their employer. Inclusive workplaces can improve retention rates by creating a positive work environment where employees feel motivated and engaged.
Companies that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusivity are more attractive to potential employees, customers, and investors. An inclusive workplace can enhance a company’s reputation and demonstrate its commitment to creating a positive impact in the world. According to a study by McKinsey & Co., companies that encourage gender diversity are more likely to have better financial returns above their respective national industry medians.
Career coaching can help companies create more inclusive workplaces by providing employees with the tools and strategies to navigate workplace challenges and biases. Career coaches can help employees identify their strengths and develop the skills needed to succeed in their roles. They can also help companies identify and address barriers to inclusion.
Unconscious bias is a pervasive issue in many workplaces. Career coaching can help employees identify their own biases and develop strategies to address them. Coaches can also work with companies to develop policies and practices that promote inclusivity and reduce the impact of bias.
Career coaching can help employees develop cultural competence, which involves understanding and appreciating the differences between individuals from different backgrounds. Such an understanding can help employees build stronger relationships with their colleagues and customers, leading to better communication and collaboration.
Career coaches can provide employees with the support and guidance needed to navigate workplace challenges, such as discrimination or microaggressions. Coaches can help employees develop the confidence and resilience needed to overcome these challenges and thrive in their roles.
Conclusion
Inclusive workplaces provide numerous benefits to both employees and employers. They foster a sense of belonging and respect, enhance creativity and innovation, improve retention rates, and enhance a company’s reputation. By prioritizing inclusivity, companies can create a positive work environment that attracts and retains top talent and positions themselves for long-term success.
When it comes to your career and your workplace journey, trust PathWise to give you all the tools you need to succeed. Our comprehensive services have been developed using our extensive expertise and insights from our team of career experts. Through coaching, courses, community memberships, and other career management tools, we help you build the skills and confidence needed to achieve your professional goals and navigate workplace challenges with ease.
Making a career change is a tremendous decision that requires thought and consideration. The decision can significantly affect your professional success, life satisfaction, and financial future. Unfortunately, too many people make career-switching mistakes that can have serious and long-lasting consequences.
You need to be aware of the common pitfalls that can derail your career trajectory, especially when you’re seeking to make a change. Understanding common career change mistakes to avoid can help you make an informed decision and minimize the risk of damaging your prospects.
People switch careers for various reasons, such as making more money, pursuing a passion, or finding a better work-life balance. Although these reasons are valid, it's important to remember why YOU are making the switch. Keep sight of your priorities and goals as you embark on this new journey.
One way to accomplish this goal is to create a career roadmap that includes your long-term career goals and the steps needed to get there. This will remind you of your priorities and help you stay focused and motivated.
Being unhappy at work can make you feel stuck and desperate for a career change. However, it's important to take the time to assess your options and find a next role that is a better fit. Rushing into something new without researching and understanding what it entails can lead to disappointment and regret.
Take the time to research potential career paths, talk to people in the field, and do informational interviews. These steps will help you better understand the path you’re considering and determine if it is the right fit for you. Additionally, look into career coaching or take online courses to gain the transferable skill set needed for your new career direction. And if you’re still trying to decide whether your current role is the right fit for you, try our short quiz.
Switching careers might sound easier said than done, especially when you hear about others who have made a switch. Remember, everyone's journey is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It’s best to properly assess your skills and interests, research potential career paths, and develop a plan for how you'll make the switch.
You also need to be realistic about the time and effort it will take to make the switch. Don't get ahead of yourself by expecting to make a career switch overnight. You may have to apply for jobs, attend networking events, and prepare for job interviews. Set realistic goals and be patient as you work toward them.
Pursuing a career change is a big decision, and it can be daunting. But with the right preparation and mindset, it can be a rewarding experience. Take the time to assess your options, lay out your plan, and be patient as you execute it.
People in your life will sometimes encourage – or even push – you to make a career switch. These could be family, friends, or even a mentor. While their advice is often well-intentioned, it's important to remember that the career decision must ultimately be yours.
Don't let yourself be compelled into making a career switch if it doesn't feel right. Instead, consider all the options relative to your objectives and make an informed decision.
Final Thoughts
Career change is an arduous process that requires careful planning and preparation. It’s important to be aware of the most common mistakes that people make when changing careers, such as not taking the time to research a potential new path, not seeking input from others in that field, and not patiently working through the process. By avoiding these mistakes, you can take the right steps to ensure a successful transition into a new career.
PathWise allows you to be in charge of your career change. We guide you through exploring your options and developing an action plan to take the steps toward your new career. Get your career switch started with us today!
We hear a lot of questions regarding the average age of career changes. Is it 30? 40? 50? even 60? Making a career change can be challenging, especially as we get older. Starting over in a new industry or career field can be particularly intimidating when you’ve been in the same industry for years. So what's the best age for career change? With the right approach, you can make a career change at any age and do it smoothly.
If you’re considering starting a new career or even switching careers, you might be wondering how to go about it in the most efficient way possible. Here are 10 easy steps that you can take to make the career transition as smooth as possible:
Before jumping into a new career path, make a structured assessment of your interests and skills. Think about what you’re good at and what you enjoy doing. This will give you an idea of your transferable skills and the kinds of job opportunities that you might want to pursue. There are a range of tools and surveys available to help you with this assessment, including the Strong Interest Survey and StrengthsFinder.
Once you’ve identified some possible career paths, it’s time to do some research. Look into the job requirements, salary range, work life balance, and potential advancement opportunities. Make sure this is a career path you’d be comfortable pursuing in the long term.
Once you’ve identified a career path, setting specific goals and planning for reaching them is essential. Set specific, timebound objectives. This could include taking classes, gaining experience, and applying for jobs.
A solid professional network is essential to making a successful career change. Start building relationships with people in the industry in which you’re interested. This could include attending networking events, joining professional organizations, and reaching out to contacts.
Talking to the average person already working in the field you’re considering can be a great way to get an inside look into your targeted industry or function. Ask questions about their experiences, job satisfaction, and what they wish they had known before they entered the field.
Experience is critical when making a career change. If you don’t have any background in the new field, you can try to gain some through job shadowing, internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs before transitioning to full time.
Once you’ve researched and talked to people in the field, it’s time to revisit your action plan. Your revised plan should include the specific steps needed to make the transition, such as getting additional training or certifications.
Make sure that your resume is up to date and tailored to the new career path that you’re pursuing. Highlight any experience, skills, or education you’ve acquired relevant to the industry.
Once you’ve researched, set goals, and gathered experience, it’s time to take the leap with the career change. Don’t be afraid to take risks; recognize that it’s never too late to pursue a change.
Making a career change can take time, so be patient. Don’t expect to land your dream job overnight. It may take months or even years of time and effort to find the perfect job. Be persistent and focused on your goals.
Making a career change at any age can be tricky, but it’s possible with a bit of planning and dedication. Follow these easy steps to make the mid career transition as smooth as possible.
PathWise provides a comprehensive suite of career management solutions to help individuals take control of their professional lives. With our mix of insights, tools, coaches, and community, PathWise puts members in the driver's seat regarding their careers. Whether you need advice on how to find the right job, build your network, or advance your career, PathWise can help. For more information about career change processes, contact us today.
If so, you aren’t alone. A recent study found that one in three Americans has a side hustle, defined as a means of making extra money outside of your primary employment. That could include anything from freelancing, to building a small business, to a part-time job.
For some, the main driver behind starting a side hustle is financial goals. But did you know there are many other reasons a side hustle could be right for you?
See if you fall into any of these categories.
If you have an entrepreneurial itch and a passion project you'd like to turn into a business, starting it out as a side hustle is the perfect testing grounds. In fact, you’ll be testing out two things.
1) Is the entrepreneurial life for you? How does it feel to start something from scratch and be your own boss? That lifestyle isn’t for everyone, which is completely okay.
2) Is your business idea a good one? Unless your business idea requires extensive upfront capital, you can test it out on a small scale to see if the market needs what you are offering.
Dipping your toe into starting a new business by doing it on the side can be a happy medium for those who are generally risk averse, but are interested in entrepreneurship.
Keep your financial security with a stable source of income while you’re giving your entrepreneurial idea a go to protect your bottom line and mental health.
While your day job pays your regular bills, it can also provide funding to get your side hustle to a point where it generates income. From there, you can invest that income to get your business where you want it to be. There’s also the added benefit of building up expertise alongside the income.
You can also use one side hustle to help fund another. For example, if you’re an entrepreneur at heart and you have an idea for, say, an ed-tech company, but you don’t have the funding yet, side hustling as a tutor and utilizing your education experience can help you build wealth while also allowing you to research the field.
If you are currently unemployed, a side hustle can serve two key purposes.
1) Starting your own side business will make you stand out in the crowd during your job search. You’ll be filling a gap on your resume and, if your side hustle is related to your core career interests, you’ll be showcasing to employers that you are dedicated to your field.
2) A side hustle can bring in extra cash when you need it. A full-time job may be the ultimate goal, but setting up an income stream through your own business can be a good way to support your immediate needs.
You may have been moving happily along in your career for some time, but you’ve reached a point where you are bored, restless, or burned out.
You could decide enough is enough and quit your job before finding something new, but that’s a little risky. Or you could start firing off applications to change careers into a new industry, but if you don’t have experience in that role or sector, you may hear a lot of radio silence.
A side hustle business can help you build the experience you need to get into that new full-time job though. If a company won't give you a shot just yet, make your own shot!
Are you a stay at home parent looking to make a return to the workforce outside of the home? A side gig could be the perfect re-entry point.
Use the skills you have built both before having children and after to create a flexible business that earns money and helps you build your skills and network. Then you have some additional recent work to add onto your resume, and you’re meeting people who can help you make those moves in your career.
If you like variety in your work, then having multiple jobs or jumping into the gig economy could feel exciting to you and not stressful. Your career doesn’t have to be just one thing if you are multi-passionate and thrive when you have multiple balls to juggle. Tossing one more ball in the air can make you more profitable and happier.
If you are seeking flexible options for employment beyond the traditional 9-5, a side hustle business could be exactly what you’re looking for. While it may start out as a role you pursue on the side in addition to your 9-5 job, your side hustle (or side hustles) could transition into your full-time employment, just not in the traditional full-time hours leaving you a little extra free time
Key Takeaways
Starting a side hustle can be a great move at many different inflection points in your career. Whether you need a side hustle to bring in more income, you’re craving change or flexibility, or you’re hoping to stand out in the job market, consider how a side hustle can play into your career strategy.
By Becca Carnahan
For ideas on side hustle that could be a fit for you and your career, check out this categorized list.
For more on careers, check out our other blogs.
