Feeling lukewarm about your current job? Presenteeism—the state of being at work physically, but not engaged in what you’re doing—can greatly reduce your productivity and your feelings of fulfillment with your job. It may help to know that many people feel stagnated or stuck in their careers from time to time, but this can be good—it’s what motivates us to grow. If you feel like you’re in a rut, it may be time to make a change. But what can you do?
Seven ways to move your career forward
First, you must commit to taking a few steps toward improving your present job situation. Once you’re committed, try any (or all) of the following to break out of your job rut:
- Figure out exactly what it is you don’t like. If you’re unhappy at your current job, take some time to brainstorm what may be upsetting you if you don’t already know. Are you just bored and need a career change? Do you not like the corporate culture, your department, the benefits package, or your commute? When you figure out what is bothering you, it can help you decide what your next steps should be.
- Take on different roles and responsibilities. It could be that you’re satisfied with your job and the company, but need to stir things up a bit at work. Are there new tasks that you’d like to try? You can talk to your boss about swapping some responsibilities with a coworker to give you both the opportunity to try something new. You could also consider applying for a completely different position within your company.
- Do your research. If you decide it’s time to move on to a new company, leave no stone unturned in your job search. Check out job boards, take advantage of social media, or work with a recruiter. Dedicate a little time every day to your search.
- Check out your competition. If you feel you’ve stagnated at your current company, check out what opportunities may exist with your competitors. You may able to perform the exact same role, but with more room for growth, better benefits, etc.
- Reach out to friends in a similar field or alumni from your college. Attend networking events and get active on LinkedIn groups. The more people you talk to, the more likely you’ll be to uncover a job lead.
- DIY an opportunity. If you’ve decided you want to move on but can’t find any job openings, why not make one? For example, if you have a knack for organization, why not start a part-time home organization business? If you have a gift for writing, try being a blogger or writing tutor on the side. You never know what may come of a small business.
- Pick up a new hobby. Sure, this doesn’t sound like it will help you at work. But by exploring what you love outside the office, you can put yourself in a much better mood to make changes inside the office. Or maybe your hobby will spurn ideas for new employment or a career change.
Regardless of how you decide to approach it, simply working on improving your job situation will help improve your outlook. The feeling that you’re taking action to make a change can be energizing and motivating in itself.
Are you looking for a new job in the Metropolitan Atlanta Area?
If so, Snelling Georgia Group can help. Our recruiters will work with you for a fulfilling new position to help you grow in your career. To learn more, contact Snelling Georgia Group today.
