1. Are you currently satisfied with your retail job?
According to an old saying, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. Are you involved in a situation with your present retail employer that makes you feel dissatisfied? Are you discontented with your colleagues or with your retailer’s culture? Has there been a change in the employment situation (for example, a merger or an acquisition) that has made you feel insecure? If you feel your satisfaction levels have changed considerably, then it is time to switch to another retailer.
2. How do you evaluate your interest in your current job?
Perhaps you have lost interest in working for your current retail employer due to the monotony of the job, or perhaps your retail employer lacks the avenues to make your current job profile more diverse. These factors may lead to a lack of interest in your current position. Determine whether your employer is willing to offer you another position that would keep you interested in your career with the company; otherwise, it is advisable to seek a change.
3. Does your job offer you an avenue to develop your core skills?
Maybe you have not been able to develop your skills beyond a certain level with your current retail employer. If your employer is not able to offer you avenues to further develop your skills, you might want to move on. Those in retail careers need to continuously evolve in order to advance in the industry.
4. Have you discussed this idea with others?
Discuss the prospect of switching jobs with friends, family, and acquaintances. Ask for input regarding whether you are making the right decision at the right time. Also, access resources online, or visit the nearest employment center to see if there are enough jobs available to merit your consideration.
5. Have you researched retail openings that interest you?
Comprehensively study the retailers that interest you. Conduct detailed research on their profiles, and check to see if they have suitable openings. You can do this by reading as much as possible about the retailers in question in the news or by contacting people you know in the retail industry to discuss your plans.
6. Do you have the necessary qualifications and experience for the new positions you’re interested in?
Consider whether you will need additional qualifications to join another retailer. Adding to your skill set can be a good idea if you are sure it will help you get the job you deserve. Many business schools and colleges offer varieties of courses that will suit your needs. However, do not overextend yourself. Are you already extremely busy during the week? If so, you might want to opt for weekend, correspondence, or online programs instead.
7. Have you looked for internal avenues for promotion?
Quite often, managers offer in-house opportunities to deserving candidates that can lead to better pay and prospects with the same retailer. Check with your employer to see if there are internal programs such as training series or workshops that you can attend.
8. Have you considered seeking an alternative position with the same retailer?
Before pursuing other options, why not try making an internal switch within the same retail organization? This may allow you to utilize the knowledge you have already gained in your new position.
9. Is your current retailer losing market share?
If the retailer you work for is losing revenue and market share to competitors, then it is advisable to search for a job with another retailer.
10. Is the new retailer you are considering joining offering you more pay and better working conditions?
If so, then it is advisable to leave your current job.
There are both pros and cons when it comes to switching jobs. Therefore, it is always best to evaluate one’s current employment situation before making a final decision.
