Thinking About Changing Jobs? Here’s Some Advice:

A job change can be a truly rewarding move, but getting there can be extremely stressful. The smart professional seeks the best advice at every stage in the process.

A sample of accounting executives were recently asked – in a survey from staffing firm Accountemps — whom they turn to for job change advice. More than two in five (43%) of the executives surveyed said they turn first to a spouse or significant other for advice.

This certainly makes sense since, after all, it is one’s spouse who get the “big picture” on the person and the job. Put a less delicate way, it is your spouse who has spent the most time hearing about your job – both the good and the bad.

But professionals should really seek out a range of opinions – and do a lot of research — before making such a big decision.

Here are some tips from Accountemps:

Size up the offer. Is the salary competitive? Does the corporate culture appeal to you? Do you like the daily job duties?
Seek a track record of success. Look at the big picture. Does the company have a strong financial track record? What are the organization’s plans for growth?
Pursue an employee-friendly environment. In addition to compensation, evaluate perks and benefits such as flexible schedules, telecommuting options, recognition programs, and mentoring and training opportunities.
Look for opportunities to grow. The best employers will provide room for professional challenge once you’ve proven yourself on the job. Can the hiring manager describe potential career paths within the organization and the support system available to help you achieve your goals?

None of this will make the decision painless. Most people fear change, and it’s impossible to be 100% certain that the move being considered will work out. But research, and sage advice, will increase the odds that the move you make is the right one.