A dream job beckons, you have made the entry into your career, but the prospect of changing jobs can be challenging. There are numerous reasons why it might make sense to switch workplaces. It is crucial to maintain control over your career to remain competitive. But when is the right time for a job change, and how do you prepare optimally? Do not wait for the next "restructuring" to happen; instead, stay proactive and make the most of your time! Our top 9 provides an overview of the crucial steps you should consider before and during a job change.

1. Keep Your Goals in Mind

Where do you want to go in your career? Setting clear goals demonstrates healthy ambition and passion for your work. In industries like consulting or banking, clear goals are highly important. Even if they are ambitious and challenging to achieve, having goals is essential to avoid feeling lost. Try to articulate your professional ambitions clearly and precisely—initially, for yourself. Keep them to yourself so you don't lose sight of them. Break down your professional development into realistic stages. This way, you'll know when the right time for a successful job change is. A job change should not be a random decision.

1- Does the new job offer a higher salary?

2- Will you have more responsibilities with your new employer?

3- Do you have a higher position in your new job, perhaps even a leadership role?

2. What Does the Job Change Offer?

Yes, changing jobs involves effort. You have to adapt to a new work environment, bid farewell to old colleagues, and maybe even relocate. A professional restart requires time, money, and emotional investments. But it must be worthwhile. You can assess this based on three criteria:

 If any of these questions can be answered with "yes," you should seize the opportunity. At the very least, the prospect of improvement should be present. A medium-term enhancement should be realistic. However, if you decide to stay in your current job for the beauty of the city or a family-friendly option, be clear about it and enjoy it. Everyone must decide for themselves what their priority is.

3. Seize the Day: Research Before the Change

If you're searching for new professional opportunities from a stable position, you have the advantage of time. Don't make hasty decisions: take the time to thoroughly research your dream job and desired employer. Start with a careful online search and make initial contacts in your network. Is there someone in your network who has information about potential new employers, has worked there before, or still works there? This way, you can gather firsthand authentic information that can help you make an informed decision. This will help you determine if a job change is worthwhile.

4. Understand the Corporate Culture

Thorough research about your future colleagues and superiors also includes understanding the overall corporate culture. Find out how employees work and what principles guide the company. In this aspect, online research beforehand can be helpful.

5. Job Change – Yes or No? Consult Others

You're not alone in this decision. Even if you are, talk about it. Self-reflection is essential, but a second and objective opinion can be invaluable. Since a job change often means a career leap, it will impact family and friends. Therefore, it's crucial to involve them in the decision-making process. Trusted individuals in your immediate surroundings who can support and advise you also strengthen your professional performance. They help you have a clear mind and offer honest opinions at the right time. An open conversation with friends and family can be very helpful.

6. Modern Job Search: Enhance Applications

 If you already have some professional experience and tangible achievements, leverage this in your application. It's entirely acceptable to request a reference letter detailing your accomplishments. At this point, it's not just about what you want, but also about what you can offer the company.

7. The Job Change Interview

A certain amount of nervousness before job interviews is normal and can motivate you to excel. However, during a job change, you'll likely be less nervous than during your entry into the workforce. You can impress in the job change interview with a professional demeanor and your professional background. Ask questions that demonstrate your knowledge and what you want. If you are wondering which questions are the right ones to ask – we’ve got you covered. In this article, you can find successful applicant questions.

8. Your Network Is Crucial!

Without our network, we wouldn't be where we are today. During a job change, your network expands, you gain new contacts, and you rejuvenate it. Simultaneously, it offers an opportunity to maintain old connections. Perhaps you can now open the door to new professional opportunities for a friend from your initial work environment. A network should be nurtured, and your new workplace provides numerous opportunities for that, whether it's in a new city, new sports clubs, and much more. Build your own "team" and gain support. If you want to know more about why networking is so important we recommend this article.

9. Make the Decision at Home

And if Plan B, the alternative professional option, isn't as enticing, you can still stay at your current job. There's no shame in staying. Perhaps your current boss is aware of your desire for a planned job change, maybe through a reference letter, and is willing to work with you. Negotiations might lead to an advancement opportunity that wasn't considered before. Don't worry; you can still leave if needed.