5 reasons to be on the lookout for a new job

You can spend years acquiring the skills for your dream job to one day make it, but that doesn't mean your career search is over. If anything, it's just beginning now that you're in a position you've been searching for all along. 

However, you'll want to keep your resume up-to-date, and periodically peek into the job market for various reasons. Whether looking for yourself, to stay up on career trends, or to refer others in your network (and thus providing value), there are many reasons to keep a thumb on the pulse of your industry's job market.

Photo by Wes Hicks on Unsplash

being loyal doesn't pay the bills

The days of working 40 years at the same job and retiring with a pension are over. Nowadays, professionals are more inclined to go where the value is. Whether that is a higher salary, better benefits, or a better work culture. If you've recently been passed over for a raise despite stellar performance, it may be a sign that you should look for a new position. With many companies adding additional work to existing position, without additional compensation to match, know that you deserve more.

your situation can change rapidly

Just like big life events can change your personal situation, such as a pregnancy or sick parent, there can be big changes in your company structure and budget that come out of the blue.  Working the job market regularly means you don't have to "re-learn" how to interview, how to interact with recruiters, and thinking back on what to add to your resume when the time comes that you really do need a new position that better fits with your life, or when you're laid off.

stay up-to-date with career trends

If you've been in your job for a while, many career trends may have passed you by. You don't know what employers are looking for anymore, so your resume does not reflect that of an ideal candidate. Set up alerts for roles similar to yours and check out the job description to stay in the know on any trends in your position and industry.

Not only do positions evolve over time, but so do companies. Ten years after your initial position at company type X, when you're ready to look for a new job, you may find that company types A and Z are also hiring people in your position. Working the same skills in a different industry can be just what you need when you need to switch things up. 

make worthwhile connections

Many opportunities occur because of who you know. It's worth perusing posts and events on LinkedIn and attending job fairs and networking events to make connections. You never know who you will meet at an event, and how your connection with them may benefit both of you in the future.  Plus, it's better to meet someone when you don't need to ask them for a job.

find out what you do and don't want

Your dream job may not be your dream job forever. You could discover that the industry is not as you envisioned, or you could be burned out by the fast pace after a few years. Think about what you do and don't like about your role and industry, and brainstorm what would make you happy. At least you learn what you want and what you don't, so you can explore other careers. If you hate office work, Knight Transportation jobs could give you a great chance to work with your hands, whereas anyone who spends a lot of time away from home may prefer a job that offers remote work, providing a flexible schedule that allows for the challenges of family life.