Small salary getting you down?

Towards the beginning of our career, the salary often looks awfully small in comparison with all the glorified salary stories we get to hear. But then, it hasn't really gotten any better than the peanuts offered in the beginning. So what do you do when you take steps for greener pastures?

Research new career choices while you have a job

It's unwise to leave your job all of a sudden (unless you have a lot saved up in the bank). If you are looking for a shift, research and try to understand different sectors. An extended research will enlighten your understanding on barriers to entry, potential competition, and future career prospect in the field.

There are situations where it becomes impossible to continue with a firm. Whatever the reason, having a lean period between jobs is not a good thing. Being unemployed for however short a period makes you a little less unattractive to potential employers. So if possible, grit your teeth, try to survive till you land the next step. Negotiations  on your part are also more effective when you already hold a job.

Consider career growth rate

Some jobs don't pay much at the beginning. But, sometimes it's not about the pay only. It can sometimes rather be about the possible career growth. You may start small, but if there's promotion opportunities based on performance, considering the job isn't the worst of ideas. Career growth rate can always overpower your temporary salary. Look for how far you can go. Will your title be complemented by the word 'Senior' in a year? Try it. Shift then.

Try the 5 year rule

Where you see yourself in five years is the common objective based question. It's also a pretty good one. Apply the same five-year rule to how important will your current reason for leaving be in that time. Combine these tow questions, and you should have a good reason to leave. Or to persevere and stay back.

Do what you like to do

 if you were miserable in your previous job for any other reason than salary, it was probably because you didn't really like the work. Always consider doing things you like rather than things you are expected to do. Meeting expectations is not nearly as important as doing things you enjoy. Think about what you really want- to do something else that you are passionate about or just any other job? Do your homework first before throwing yourself out there.

Use your network

I'm not saying you won't get a job if you don't have connections. But it never hurts to have connections because they will put in a few good words which will go a lot farther than your resume. Thousands of people drop their CV's for one single job considering the current world economy and national unemployment rate.  The HR could have a "ruling out" mentality. Use your connection to bypass the HR and meet your potential employer beforehand. Deepita Naila Muhaimen, IGCSE pastoral coordinator of Regent College says, "We get tons of CV's every month. But  only those who actually come to drop their CV's in person get an advantage because that way, we can set up a walk-in interviews right then. " Connections are a resource type. Use it if you have or cultivate it otherwise.

Analyze your current job prospect and shortcoming

Don't quit like a drama-queen all of a sudden. Job life doesn't have space for drama and you barely get to un-do your mistakes. You might have a good job and all you possibly need is some patience. Ask yourself why exactly you want to leave. No particular answer yet? Think harder. Make a list and analyze. Remember, there is no coming back the moment you decide to quit. Take your time deciding.

Prepare yourself for the worst outcome

Try not to get disappointed.  Lack of inspiration and response can be the two biggest obstacles in your career. Often, you will reach out to many options but get few responses. Maybe even none. This is the worst case scenario. You're stuck, but only for the time being. The main thing to remember is that all things do pass. Keep at it. Build your connections, develop your skill set.

With a busy job life, all of these can be a little tough to make time for. But you need to do a little extra than others to win the race. Keep talking to successful individuals. Listen for their struggle rather than the present glory. I'm sure you will end up learning a lot more than you had expected.