Is it a good time to change jobs?

As the crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic shows its worst face in the world, threatening a complicated near future for the labor market, many workers are faced with the question of whether to stay in their jobs or begin an active search for a change of direction.

Some prioritize job security over their long-term career aspirations. However, this may be an excellent time to look for a new job. While certain sectors are making difficult decisions to continue to survive, others are looking to the future and actively recruiting professionals to fill roles that have become more valuable in the wake of the downturn.

All of this begs the question, is it a good time to change jobs? Our analysts considered the following reasons that are important to get an answer.

Skills dynamism

There is consensus that the job search landscape is not the same as it was before the Covid-19 pandemic was declared. In quantitative terms, supply is down in many areas.

However, the smaller number of available positions requires candidates to have a wider range of communication, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, teamwork and adaptability skills, which now become highly valued differentials for many employers, due to the versatility to do a greater number of tasks in the context of smaller teams.

If you present considerable gaps in relation to any skill that may be of high value in a given job field, taking advantage of opportunities to take online courses can be a powerful alternative to increase your competencies and thus increase your level of employability.

Increased career opportunities in small teams

The crisis has forced many companies to reduce the size of their teams. This means that each member of the team has to take on part of the work performed by those who have been laid off, assuming new responsibilities.

This reality opens up possibilities for increasing skills in new areas and showing the ability to take on new challenges, which immediately expands both professional experience and the options for professional advancement, both in the company where you work and elsewhere.

Thinking of companies that have had to reduce their teams, this is an ideal time to take advantage of opportunities to receive greater responsibility, as it opens an opportunity for development, projecting your career by learning about different areas of the business.

Leave your comfort zone

Perhaps the job where you are now makes you feel comfortable, but it’s good to evaluate whether a change can enhance your non-monetary benefits such as flexible hours, the ability to work remotely, professional development and a positive workplace culture.

If you visualize that you find yourself in a situation where it is not possible to more strongly develop your potential, it may be time to look around and explore your options.

Analyze the industries that are hiring because, while the job market may not look in the best shape right now, there are definitely opportunities waiting for candidates who are willing to dare to step out of their comfort zone.