The holiday season is officially in full swing! This is a great time to begin making resolutions for 2016. After all, what better time for a fresh start, than a new year? If you are not satisfied with your career, it might be time to make a change.

5 Great Reasons to Consider a Career Change in 2016

Your job is a huge part of who you are. If you are lack satisfaction, it could start to encroach on your personal life and hinder your professional development. If any of the following five situations reflect your current career, it is probably time to consider new opportunities:

You No Longer Feel Challenged

When you begin a new job, everything is fresh and exciting! However, without career progression, perceptions of the same duties might dull overtime. If your work has become mundane, it might be time for a change. Do not waste your talents on a job you could essentially do in your sleep. Instead, seek opportunities that challenge your abilities and expand your knowledge.

There are No Opportunities for Advancement

As a talented professional, you look to the future, always thinking ahead to the next step up the ladder. If your company offers no upward mobility and and you feel as though there is nothing left to learn in your current position, it might be time to consider your options. Do not remain in a stagnant situation waiting for a promotion that will never happen. A new job can provide the means to advance your career, ideally into a role with continuous learning opportunities as well as upwards mobility.

You Are Not Being Paid a Fair Salary

Money is not everything, but the size of your paycheck can influence your quality of life. While the amount might vary from company to company there is an expectation of being paid your worth. Salary is typically determined based on a number of factors; e.g. supply and demand of labor, location and the responsibilities of the role.  If the salary is not competitive or if you are overworked, it could impact your self perception, work-life balance and job satisfaction and eventually career development.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics maintains updated salary information for more than 800 occupations, adjusted by industry and geographical area. There are also a number of websites and salary calculators available online for reference. Utilize such tools to evaluate how well your paycheck measures up from a competitive standpoint. Factor in the responsibilities of the role and the work performed. If you are not paid what you are worth, it might be time to consider new opportunities.

You Do Not Get Along With Your Boss

In your professional life, there are few things worse than having a bad boss. A bad boss can be toxic to the company culture, as well as their subordinates’ job satisfaction and professional development. Examples include managers that ignore talent, stunt career growth, and constantly behave in a disrespectful manner. You deserve a boss who treats you kindly and helps you develop your skills, not one who seemingly strives to make life miserable. If you are unable to resolve the situation, ensure a positive career progression by seeking employment with a different company, one with a healthier work environment.

Going to Work Does Not Make You Happy

A sense of accomplishment is an important aspect of a career. After all, you spend at least 40 hours a week at work. If you don’t find your job fulfilling, it could have a significant impact on your quality of life. Analyze your situation to determine the causes of your unhappiness, as well as what changes would result in an overall positive perception of your job. While it’s possible a new role could increase job satisfaction, a critical evaluation could also indicate the need to seek employment at another company or industry. Even if you are not ready to take the leap, the understanding will help in the establishment of a new career path and guide decisions to further career development towards new goals.

Achieve Career Fulfillment in 2016

Is it time for a change? RealStreet can help you locate the next step in your career. RealStreet is the leading source for rewarding opportunities in the architectural, engineering and construction and engineering. Contact us to find a challenging new job at a company that truly deserves your hard work and dedication!