It may seem like it’s easy to switch jobs, but a recent Harris Poll shows that 70% of Americans who are hunting for a new gig are finding it harder than expected. While the cleared industry has its own nuances and quirks, holding a security clearance does offer a level of job stability to the clearance holder. But that doesn’t mean that you can wait until you’re ready to quit to start looking for your next role. In fact, waiting until you hate your job can do more harm to your career than expected. It can be challenging to battle back against negative work experiences.
Always Be Ready to Run
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) demographic data in 2022, the median time at a job is 4.1 years. Wherever you are on that timeline – or in your current period of performance, it might surprise you that now is the time to get ready to leave your job. Whether you stay half or double the median number, it’s always time to be ready to run. You never want to rush your job search or pick a new employer because you’re desperate for something better.
One way to battle against complacency is to look at other jobs requisitions. Look at what other employers are expecting or paying. Is it time to ask for a raise or are you compensated better than others? Are job postings requiring additional certifications in your field? It might be time to take a class or add a certification to your resume. Comparison may be the thief of joy, but it can also keep you from phoning it in at your job.
Five Job-Searching Tasks to Do NOW
Stop looking for the perfect sign on whether or not to quit your job. You’ll know when it’s the right time to turn up the heat on the real job search. And once you make that decision, the turnaround is usually between one to three months. But if you wait to look around until your contract ends or you hate your life, it will probably be too late.
1. Make the mindset switch.
Unless you are signed up to work a set number of years with your employer due to a specific benefit, you don’t owe them anything. That doesn’t mean that you constantly look for the exit, but it does mean that you don’t stay longer in a position that isn’t best for you. Sometimes, it’s less about specific tasks and more about having a mindset that’s open to change. And for some people, making a job change is more painful than staying put. However, it’s important to give yourself permission to play the field a little bit.
2. Schedule regular updates.
We all know that we’re supposed to update our resume regularly, but it’s one of those tasks that’s easier said than done. However you can make updates to your resume and online profiles along the way, do it. Your future self will thank you. It only takes one organization change for you to hate your work life. And making resume updates when you’re under pressure doesn’t always translate to the best end product.
3. Check your calendar.
You might feel extra motivated to look for a new job in the new year. But it turns out that a lot of other candidates will feel the same way. Similarly, during holiday and summer seasons, job searches slow down. Job searching when many employees are out on vacations might yield fewer results. Some studies have also shown a higher number of job openings posted towards the beginning of the week.
4. Network, network, network.
The beauty of networking is that it’s not all about you. Connecting with other people and learning their stories is helpful. We all know those people who are painful to be around at a conference. The light in their eyes dims the second they realize that you can’t do anything for them. The benefit of meeting new people isn’t just to find someone who can help you out. However, sometimes you never know which connections are going to be part of your career progression.
5. Assess the landscape.
The cleared industry has a lot of pockets and quirks, and the good news is that it’s constantly changing. Each year brings a new list of employers dipping their toes into the government contracting waters. Add to the list acquisitions, and the landscape is constantly shifting. Contracts that used to be normal fall out of favor, and government priorities shift. You have to keep your ear to the ground, listening for any changes that could impact your current and future roles.
The Time is Now
You don’t have to be ready to quit to look for a new job. But it is good to always have your eyes and ears open to the possibility of change. Waiting until your job is awful is the wrong time to plan your exit. Preparation is the key to making a smooth transition to the next stop in your career. It also helps you battle complacency in your current job.
