New Year, new job?

The New Year is a popular time to consider moving jobs. We consider the top considerations when doing so


If you look back at your calendar and discover you were doing exactly the same thing as this time last year, it is probably time to consider your career options.

You may like routine but when that routine equates to monotony, your enthusiasm for your role is likely to wane. If there aren’t opportunities to develop or take on more responsibility in your current role, it’s probably time to consider a career move.

Likewise, you may have skills that you are not using in your current job. Don’t waste them, especially if they’re in-demand skills that employers are always looking for, such as risk and compliance expertise, advanced Excel skills, or other technical savvy. Skills are in high demand, particularly as there is no end in sight for the current demand and supply imbalance.

Karen Young, director at Hays Accountancy & Finance, says: ‘First, you need to ensure you are moving for the right reasons before you begin your new year, new job search.

‘Can you see a career path for you in your current organisation? Even if you can’t see a long-term plan, you could be gaining valuable experience that will be a good stepping-stone to a more senior role within another organisation.

‘So mull over whether you should stay in your role and develop your skills and expertise or make a move elsewhere in the department or organisation.’

Another benefit of changing roles and developing your skills in other areas is that it could help you to complete your performance objectives more quickly as you work towards achieving ACCA membership.

Team dynamics

A new boss, colleague or a team restructure can result in you working with someone that you do not instantly bond with or even like very much. Invest time in building the relationship – you may be surprised how much you learn and grown from the experience.

But, however hard you try, if you cannot get along, then staying in a role with conflicts can be stressful. Ultimately, this can have a detrimental effect on your health and impact on your confidence and, therefore, your ability to secure a new role.

Alternatively, it can be the case that you used to get along with your manager just fine but, lately, you’re not seeing eye-to-eye and you’re having a hard time hiding your frustrations.

Your boss may sense that, causing tension between the two of you. It’s impacting your job satisfaction and performance, and it doesn’t seem likely you’ll be able to resolve it. If that is the case, it may be best for both of you that you find a new job elsewhere.

Under-valued

If you are enjoying your role but think you are under-valued, research the market to arm yourself with the facts and then speak to your boss before you start applying for other roles, as your boss may not be aware of current market pay scales.

Your boss is likely to appreciate your professionalism in not just deciding to leave but looking for ways to improve satisfaction in your current role. If there is no flexibility on your pay or future opportunities to progress, your job search can begin.

Phil Sheridan, managing director at Robert Half UK, adds: ‘The "war for talent" is seeing salaries rise across the board for accountancy and finance professionals as employers compete for skilled talent.

‘As such, accountancy professionals eager to develop their technical knowledge and have exceptional communication skills are sought-after by employers across the UK.

‘If you have been turned down for a pay rise, you could be one of 24% of individuals who look new job opportunities with a competitor.’

"The 'war for talent' is seeing salaries rise across the board for accountancy and finance professionals as employers compete for skilled talent"

Phil Sheridan - Robert Half