Career Crossroads: Should You Switch Jobs or Wait Out the Crisis?
Assessing the Situation
In the current economic climate, the desire to switch jobs comes with its share of risks, primarily due to the reduced number of vacancies. However, a crisis can also present unique opportunities for change, as the potential for loss exists regardless of the path chosen. Iona Savich, a career consultant and expert from the “Ready Resume” service at rabota.by, shared insights with journalist Nikolai Mikhnovets from Tochka.by on how to navigate job searches during unpredictable times.
Evaluating the Job Market
Experts have observed that the number of vacancies in Belarus has decreased, leading to increased competition and longer job search times. Previously, sending out 10 applications might have secured at least one interview invitation. Today, the effort required is significantly higher.
Key Considerations
If you are currently employed but considering a job change, the crisis might prompt a reevaluation of your plans. Savich advises a calm assessment of your situation, understanding your personal goals, and evaluating your company’s stability during economic instability.
“Those who were planning to leave might reconsider their position due to the crisis. Challenges create new tasks and opportunities to excel in new roles or related fields,” noted Savich.
Financial Stability
Concerns about unpaid salaries should be addressed by examining changes in the company’s operations, client retention, and transaction payments. Additionally, consider whether the management has a crisis plan and keeps employees informed. A company’s history of overcoming past crises can also provide reassurance.
Work on Pause
The economic crisis has left many in a state of limbo—formally employed but working reduced hours, on social leave, or even facing layoffs. Savich views this as an opportunity to assess your skills and identify barriers to advancement.
Utilizing Time Effectively
“This is a chance to gain new knowledge or explore different work formats, such as freelancing or internships, to stabilize your financial situation. If finances permit, take a timeout to pursue activities you previously lacked time for,” suggests Savich.
Maintaining Emotional Stability
For those determined to keep their jobs, Savich recommends maintaining emotional stability and avoiding panic. “Employers value initiative and multitasking during unstable times. Evaluate your role and consider how you can optimize your work to help the business survive. This not only increases your chances of retention but also positions you for career advancement once stability returns,” she asserts.
Time as a Valuable Resource
If you decide to seek new employment, Savich advises against wasting time. She suggests specific steps to streamline the process, such as analyzing the job market and identifying promising sectors.
Preparing Your Resume
Gather significant facts for your resume. While your job duties may seem clear, articulating them can be challenging. “Review your records, identify complex or unusual projects you’ve completed recently, and recall instances where your solutions helped your employer overcome crises. Start by ‘over-praising’ yourself, then refine the information into a concise, clear format,” advises Savich.
Adapting to Change
Recognize that the world has changed. Job seekers must be prepared to take on additional responsibilities if required. Initially, this might not yield the desired salary, but it can open doors for professional and financial growth in the long run.
Staying Resilient
Savich encourages perseverance during prolonged job searches, noting that there are no unsuitable vacancies or resumes—just mismatches at certain stages. She advises against taking layoffs personally, as employers make decisions based on economic necessity, retaining those who contribute most to the company’s survival.
Avoiding Hasty Decisions
Avoid letting fear drive you to accept the first job offer that comes along. Create a checklist of what you want in your new job. If there’s minimal alignment, it’s better to continue your search.
Embracing Opportunities
Savich shares from personal experience that those who see opportunities in crises ultimately find what they seek. She emphasizes the importance of staying active and viewing numerous interviews as stepping stones to success.
