There are lots of reasons people stay in the jobs they have – even if the work is more mundane than they might like. At times these career sticking points can be a good thing. They promote stability, prevent job-hopping and directionless resumes. On the other hand, a heads-down approach in the workplace can prevent you from seeing things as they really are or considering the kind of bold moves that can add depth and flexibility to your career path.
What People Say About Why They Stay
- It’s my comfort zone! I know the people, my routine, and what’s expected of me. I can walk through the day fairly certain I can handle what comes up. It’s easier to stay.
- I’ve been here so long I don’t know what else I could possibly do. I’m such a specialist I’m not even sure how I’d fit in a new organization.
- I have no idea how to look for a new job. Where would I start? I certainly can’t take a chance that my current employer would find out. It could hurt my chances of staying here.
- As much as I might want to go, I’m handling overtime, family, parents, outside commitments and when I do get home, I’m exhausted. I have no energy to organize a search and getting off work for an interview, really!!
- I’m not sure the grass is really is greener somewhere else. I’d need to make it worthwhile – a better commute, a salary increase, and a new title would be great. I’d like more customer contact and a new industry too would really be invigorating. How would I find all that?
And the number one reason people stay in their current job is ….loyalty to the people they work with – that’s it – their sense of personal and professional connection to their co-workers, and even their boss. If they feel they are an appreciated, valued and respected member of their ‘work family’ they will weather some storms to stay.
More on why people finally decide to move on….in the next blog posting!
Lynne O'Connor's Blog - Advanced Career Coaching Inc. 