Why you shouldn't look for opportunities elsewhere without first seeking for them within your company

Are you feeling the itch to leave your current job in search of greener pastures elsewhere? Before you start sending out your resume and weighing your options, hold on a sec! Before you consider looking for opportunities outside of your current company, have you explored what's available within your organization first? It's worth taking a closer look before you make any hasty decisions.

As employees, we often get caught up in the allure of new and exciting job openings at other companies. It's only natural to want to advance our careers and take on new challenges. However, before you start searching for your next gig, consider the benefits of staying put and finding opportunities within your current company. Not only could it save you the hassle of job hunting and adjusting to a new work culture, but it could also lead to a more fulfilling and successful career path. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons why you shouldn't overlook the possibilities within your company and provide some tips on how to make the most of them.

The Benefits of Staying Put (at the Same Job)

One of the biggest advantages of seeking opportunities within your current company is the opportunity to build upon your existing skill set and expertise. When you stay with an organization, you have the chance to take on new projects and responsibilities, which can lead to personal and professional growth. Additionally, staying with a company for a longer period of time can increase your chances for promotions and leadership opportunities.

Another benefit of staying put is the opportunity to establish strong relationships with your colleagues and superiors. These relationships can be valuable in terms of networking and career advancement. Your colleagues and superiors can act as references and mentors, helping you navigate your career path and providing valuable advice and support.

Finally, staying with a company can also provide a sense of stability and security. You are already familiar with the company's policies and procedures, and you have a support system in place. Starting a new job, on the other hand, can be stressful and overwhelming as you adjust to a new work culture and team.

While there are certainly benefits to staying with a company, it's important to also consider whether the opportunities available within your organization align with your long-term career goals.

Assessing Your Options Within the Company

Before making a decision to leave your current job, take some time to assess the opportunities available within your organization. Are there any open positions that align with your career goals? Do you have the skills and experience to qualify for these roles? If not, are there any training or development programs available to help you gain the necessary skills?

It can also be helpful to have candid conversations with your manager or HR representative about your career aspirations. Consider asking for an interdepartmental transfer. Your reporting manager / supervisor may be able to provide guidance on what opportunities are available within the company and how you can position yourself for them.

Additionally, consider seeking out projects or assignments that can help you expand your skill set and demonstrate your value to the organization. Volunteer for new initiatives or offer to take on additional responsibilities. This can not only help you stand out, but also show your commitment to the company.

Even if you don't see a clear path to advancement within your current company, there may be ways to create your own opportunities.

Creating Your Own Opportunities (Seize Your Day)

If you don't see a clear path to advancement within your current company, it's worth considering whether there are ways to create your own opportunities. This could involve seeking out additional training or education to enhance your skills, or exploring ways to take on new responsibilities and projects within your current role.

Another option is to consider starting a side hustle or freelance work in your area of expertise. This can not only provide an additional source of income, but also allow you to gain new experiences and skills that can be applied to your current job or future career.

It's also important to remember that career advancement doesn't always have to come in the form where you get picked for a traditional promotion and get a  new job title. Look for ways to make an impact within your current role and be proactive in seeking out opportunities for growth and development.

While it's natural to consider opportunities outside of your current company, it's important to carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

The Risks of Leaving Your Current Job

While the prospect of a new job with better pay or more exciting responsibilities can be tempting, it's important to carefully weigh the risks of leaving your current job.

One risk to consider is the possibility of entering a toxic or unhealthy work environment. It's important to do your due diligence and research the company culture and work environment before accepting a new job. A bad work culture can lead to stress, burnout, and ultimately hinder your career advancement (even if you have the necessary certificates and prerequisites).

Leaving your current job also means leaving behind the relationships and support system you have established within your current organization. Starting a new job can be isolating, and it can take time to build new mutually-beneficial workplace relationships and find your footing.

Finally, there is also the risk of financial instability. While a new job may offer a higher salary, it's important to consider the costs of transitioning, such as relocation expenses and the potential for a pay cut if you enter a different industry than what your past work experience states.

While leaving your current job may come with risks, it's not always a bad decision.

When It Makes Sense to Leave Your Current Job

While there are certainly benefits to staying with a company and exploring opportunities within your organization, there may be times when it makes sense to consider giving your 2-week notice to leave your current job.

One reason to consider leaving is if you are consistently underpaid or not receiving the support and resources you need to succeed in your role. If you have tried to address these issues with your manager or HR representative and have not seen any improvement, it may be time to consider other options.

Another reason to leave is if you are no longer challenged or fulfilled in your current role. If you have reached a dead end in terms of career advancement or are no longer passionate about your work, it may be time to explore new opportunities. We should try to make sure the work we do daily plays to our strengths we have communicated upon joining the company (during the interviewing stage) - it makes work more fulfilling.

Finally, if you have a clear vision for your career path and the opportunities within your current company do not align with that vision, it may be time to consider other options. It's important to be proactive in pursuing your career goals and not settling for a role that doesn't align with your long-term aspirations.

If you do decide to leave your current job, it's important to do so in a professional and respectful manner.

The Importance of a Professional Exit

If you do decide to leave your current job, it's important to do so in a professional and respectful manner. This not only reflects well on you as an employee, but it can also have a long-lasting impact on your reputation and future job prospects.

Be sure to provide your employer with a proper notice and offer to help with the transition process. Thank your colleagues and superiors for their support and express your appreciation for the opportunities you have had with the company.

It's also a good idea to keep the lines of communication open with your former employer and colleagues, even as you countdown the workdays you have left. You never know when you may need their help or advice in the future, and it's important to maintain a positive relationship.

In summary, while it can be tempting to search for new opportunities outside of your current company, it's worth taking the time to explore the possibilities within your organization first. Don't overreact and hop to another comNot only can staying with a company lead to personal and professional growth, but it can also provide stability and a support system. However, if you do decide to leave, be sure to give your notice properly, in a professional and respectful manner to maintain your reputation and future job prospects.