After months of being a prisoner in your own home, it’s no wonder that life has changed. Leaving your pets in the house unattended feels wrong, and you haven’t had the chance to meet new work colleagues offline! Beyond the challenges, independent reflection during isolation has prompted questions including ‘what is life about?’ and ‘am I pleased with my career?’. Depending on the conclusion you’ve drawn, you may be looking to change your career. Perhaps you want to work for a smaller or a larger company, or you want to leave your current industry entirely.
It is undeniable; we are observing a massive post-pandemic career swap. Here are a few reasons why people are seeking change.
Working From Home Doesn’t Suit Everyone
Extroverted employees who rely on physical accountability and friendship don’t suit home-based roles. As some digital companies transition to fully online teams, it is natural that some employees won’t appreciate the new normal. The change in surroundings could prompt a career change from more outgoing staff.
While online businesses save a lot of money since they needn’t hire office space, there are obvious challenges posed by virtual communication. A fast internet connection is critical to keeping teams in touch. However, lags can still occur during calls and confuse everybody. Mental health can also take a rapid decline without close friendship and daily exercise.
Working From Home May Suit You If:
- You don’t have children that can distract you at home.
- You’re happy communicating through email and video calls.
- You’re self-motivated and don’t require other people’s input to fulfil a role.
- You enjoy travelling, and you’d like to work abroad.
- You’ve got pets that require constant attention throughout the day.
- You exercise outside of work.
If any of the above points ring true, working from home could be an ideal move for you. If you’re currently working somewhere that requires you to attend the office, it may be time to consult a career coach! Secure a role tailored to your lifestyle. There are more virtual jobs than ever before since the pandemic.
No Appreciation Reduces Loyalty
Without fair pay and regular rewards, employees quickly feel unappreciated. Even if they fundamentally enjoy their daily tasks, unvalued employees are often demotivated. They have no incentive or encouragement to go the extra mile. Team members in this boat will often seek a business that appreciates their creativity and pays them fairly. No company is so unique that a competitor can’t provide a similar job role.
To Reduce The Risk Of Employees Feeling Unappreciated:
- Host regular pay reviews. If you highly value your team, you’ll notice when they deserve more money.
- Discuss avenues for promotion. When you provide a plan for where you see your employee, they have a framework in place to pursue.
- Offer regular and sincere verbal praise.
- Host team events dedicated to congratulating their performance.
- Consider promotions before you hire new people in positions of management. Your current employees should be first in line for exciting new roles.
- Create new tasks to allow your team to shine, and contribute to company growth.
- Encourage independent learning, and demonstrate that their knowledge is worth developing.
- Pay for expert career counselling to assist and inspire any employees who are struggling.
Lack Of Opportunity Creates Boredom
The same routine day-in and day-out is guaranteed to become a chore. Without some challenge or the possibility for progression, any career can feel stagnant and mind-numbingly dull. The decision to switch careers could be to learn something fresh and progress in a new field.
During the pandemic, everybody was granted some time to consider what talents they wanted to develop. No longer could the excuse ‘I’m just too busy’ be used to escape music lessons, learn a language, or practice artistry. Particularly during the furlough, hobbies became full-time entertainment, and that passion can transition into a career.
So, What Can You Do?
The post-pandemic career swap is excellent news. If you’re an employer looking to hire, there are more job-hunters than ever before. If you’re an employee that always craved a career change, now is a perfect time! Take this momentum, and channel it into your new career!
Contact me, Chris Kenber, if you’re ready to elevate your professional life. Whether you’re an employee or an employer, I’ve got a solution for you.