ASK HR: When is the right time to move to a new workplace?

By JANE MUIRURI

Q: I have received an offer letter for a job I applied for several months ago. However, I’m reluctant to take it. I wonder if this is a good time to move to a new workplace. Currently, I have a secure job. The terms for the new job are slightly better and the role promises to be exciting, but I am not sure if my job there will be secure. Please advise?

Moving to a new workplace is always a risky venture. You should conduct a cost-benefit analysis of the two job opportunities in terms of monetary benefits and opportunities for career progression. You should also be keen to know the organisational culture at the new work station and whether you will fit there.

Your current employer already knows your value, so you should be cautious as you ponder on your next move. As you may be aware, some industries have been affected by the pandemic more than others. Therefore, before you jump ship, find out how much your prospective employer has been affected. Obtain information on the company’s performance before and during the pandemic. If this information is not public, you can approach the employer and inquire politely about the challenges the organisation is experiencing.

Find out what measures your prospective employer has put in place to protect employees during this public health crisis. This will help you know more about the organisation’s culture and how much they value their employees.

Once this crisis is behind us, some jobs will evolve and new ones will come up. Therefore it is important to find out if the role you are interested in will survive the disruptions.

There is no perfect time to change jobs, as long as the new role is in line with your career progression plan, is stable, and offers you competitive remuneration. You have to make the decision since you are the one who will face the consequences of any choice you commit to. If you decide to stay at your current workplace, explore ways in which you can grow within the organisation and improve your compensation package.

If you decide to move, do so only because the new company offers better career growth opportunities. The salary should not be ‘’slightly better’. It should be a life-changing sum, worth the risk you are taking in jumping into the unknown.

Jane Muiruri – Senior HR Manager, Nation Media Group; [email protected]